Germany Contact Lenses Market Analysis

Germany Contact Lenses Market Executive Summary

Germany Contact Lenses Market was valued at $627.32 Mn in 2023 and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 7.1% from 2023 to 2030, to $1,013.95 Mn by 2030. 

Contact lenses are versatile medical devices placed directly on the eye, serving both functional and cosmetic purposes. They come in several types: soft lenses, made of flexible plastic allowing oxygen to the cornea; rigid gas permeable lenses for sharper vision; hybrid lenses combining features of both; and scleral lenses covering the cornea and sclera, useful for irregular corneas. They correct refractive errors like myopia and hyperopia and cater to cosmetic needs with colored variants. Fitting by an optometrist or ophthalmologist ensures proper selection based on individual eye health and lifestyle. Regular cleaning and adherence to wearing schedules are crucial for preventing infections and maintaining eye health. Risks include infections, dry eyes, and corneal abrasions if not used correctly. Regulated as medical devices, advancements like silicone hydrogel materials and UV-blocking capabilities enhance safety and comfort, making contact lenses a popular choice for vision correction and aesthetic enhancement globally.

In Europe and North America, the prevalence of myopia (nearsightedness) is around 30% among Caucasians, with approximately 15% of children affected. Children with myopic parents are 3 times more likely to develop myopia. Standardized examination methods are necessary for accurate prevalence determination. Major eye diseases in Europe, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma, significantly contribute to blindness. In Germany, about 2.7 Mn people had moderate-severe vision loss, and 229 Th were blind in 2020.

The market therefore is driven by significant factors like the high prevalence of refractive errors, increasing demand for convenience, technological advancements, and rising disposable income. However, high cost, improper care and hygiene practices, and competition from refractive surgery restrict the growth and potential of the market.

Prominent players in this field are Bausch and Lomb, which emphasizes daily disposable contact lenses enhanced with comfort technologies and supports sustainability initiatives. On the other hand, CooperVision focuses on innovation through advanced materials, specialized solutions for myopia management, and convenient subscription services for contact lenses. Other contributors include Alcon Vision LLC, and Essilor International S.A. among others.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

High Prevalence of Refractive Errors: Statistics from the Federal Statistical Office of Germany (Destatis) show a high prevalence of refractive errors in the population. An estimated 26.3 Mn people in Germany (aged 40 and over) experience some form of refractive error, including myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness), and astigmatism. This creates a large population seeking vision correction solutions.

Increasing Demand for Convenience: Contact lenses offer a convenient alternative to eyeglasses for many people, especially those with active lifestyles or who prefer a certain aesthetic. A 2021 report by the Association of Contact Lens Manufacturers (ACLM) suggests that over 4 Mn people in Germany wear contact lenses.

Technological Advancements: The introduction of new materials and technologies like silicone hydrogel lenses and daily disposables has significantly improved comfort, wearability, and user experience, attracting more people to contact lenses.

Rising Disposable Income: Germany boasts a strong economy with a growing population enjoying increasing disposable income. The World Bank estimates Germany's GDP per capita at $51,440 in 2023. This allows people to spend more on discretionary items like contact lenses.

Market Restraints

High Cost: Contact lenses, especially specialty lenses or frequent replacement schedules, can be expensive in Germany. This can be a barrier for some consumers, even with rising disposable income.

Improper Care and Hygiene Practices: Studies show that a significant portion of contact lens wearers may not adhere to proper hygiene and care practices, potentially leading to complications and infections.

Competition from Refractive Surgery: Advancements in laser vision correction procedures like LASIK are becoming increasingly accessible in Germany. While not suitable for everyone, these options present some competition for the contact lens market for specific demographics.

Regulatory Landscape and Reimbursement Scenario

The regulatory landscape for contact lenses in Germany is governed by both the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR) and the national German Medical Devices Act (Medizinproduktegesetz - MpG). All contact lenses must comply with the MDR, which involves a conformity assessment based on risk classification: Class I (low risk), Class IIa (medium risk), and Classes IIb & III (high risk). The MpG complements the MDR with additional requirements specific to Germany, such as labeling and post-market surveillance. Manufacturers must implement a Quality Management System (QMS) adhering to international standards like ISO 13485 to ensure quality and safety. They are also responsible for monitoring the performance of contact lenses post-market and reporting any adverse events to the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM).

Regarding reimbursement, public health insurance in Germany typically does not cover contact lenses unless deemed medically necessary. In such cases, an ophthalmologist must prescribe the lenses for conditions like keratoconus or severe myopia that cannot be adequately corrected by eyeglasses. Partial coverage might be possible for children or young adults with specific medical justifications. The extent of reimbursement varies depending on the health insurance plan and the type of lenses prescribed.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

Here are some of the major key players in the Germany Contact Lenses Market

• Abbott Medical Optics, Inc.
• Alcon Vision LLC
• Bausch & Lomb, Incorporated
• Acuvue
• Dailies
• Hoya
• Biofinity
• Air Optic
• Medennium
• Seed Co., Ltd.