Specsavers has reported another year of strong growth, with group revenue rising 7.5% to £4.18bn in the year to February 2025, as the optical and hearing retailer expanded its footprint and invested heavily in customer care and new technology.
The business, which marked its 40th anniversary in 2024, now operates 2,815 stores globally and served more than 48 million customers over the year.
In the UK and Ireland, its largest market, revenue hit £2.32bn and £176.6m respectively. Australia contributed £863.3m, while New Zealand generated £104.1m.
Continental Europe also remained a key growth driver, with the Netherlands bringing in £167.1m, Sweden £144.3m and Denmark £164m.
The company also saw record demand across its optical and audiology services.
Specsavers handled 1.75 million customer feedback responses in optics alone and performed more than 116,463 ophthalmic procedures via its Newmedica network.
More than 24 million customers were served either online, in-store or via home visits in the past 12 months, and nearly 25 million frames and 617 million contact lenses were sold globally.
Hearing aid sales also continued to climb, reaching 746,400 units.
The retailer has also said it is progressing with its “blended experience” strategy, which integrates online and in-store journeys, including digital appointment management, tele-optometry services and improved patient communications.
It opened its 1,000th UK and Ireland store during the year and continued to expand in newer territories, including Canada, where it now operates 150 businesses across four provinces with plans to reach over one million Canadians in 2025.
The group also made its first move into the US market in 2024 through a partnership with contact lens business Waldo.
Sustainability remains a key pillar of its long-term strategy. Last year Specsavers paid £379m in taxes globally and generated a total tax contribution of £965m for the countries in which it operates. Specsavers says it remains committed to reaching net-zero by 2050.
Founders Doug and Dame Mary Perkins said the year’s performance demonstrated “40 years of care” and reaffirmed the retailer’s commitment to providing affordable eyecare and hearing services in challenging economic conditions.
With continued investment in clinical capabilities, digital services and international growth, the business is positioning itself for further expansion in 2025.
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