Sunglass sales are taking off in travel retail. What can optical learn from this growing category?

摘要

Like so many other retail segments, sunglass sales hit a speed bump during the recession, forcing eyewear manufacturers to rethink their business plans and consider new selling options. A big assist in shoring up the sunglass market is a growing silo: travel retail. By building their presence there, sunglass manufacturers have grown their sales and connected with a monied, brand-buying audience. First launched in 1947, travel retail began as duty-free shops out of Shannon, Ireland, where planes refueled after transatlantic flights. Though cigarettes and liquor were primary drivers, and are to this day, the buying options have expanded worldwide to include a treasure trove of luxury goods, such as sunwear.