New study identifies ophthalmic optics as a key industry of the future

Ophthalmic optics is one of the most important future industries in the German economy. This is shown by a recent study conducted by the FutureManagementGroup in cooperation with the German industry association SPECTARIS. The study analyzed 25 branches of industry with regard to key future trends up to 2040 and determined an industry ranking of the ten industries with the greatest future potential. The overarching optics and photonics sector, which includes ophthalmic optics, was ranked in 6th place.

Future technologies: smart vision solutions and digital networking

AI-supported diagnostics & smart glasses: Advanced image analysis algorithms enable more precise diagnoses. Smart glasses and contact lenses process visual information in real time.
Telemedicine and digital advice: online vision tests and AI-supported diagnoses facilitate access to eye health.
Intelligent ophthalmic optics as part of the “quantified self”: smart contact lenses measure health parameters such as eye pressure or blood sugar levels.
3D printing & AI-supported production: Individually optimized lenses and frames are personalized through AI and additive manufacturing.
Sustainable production & recycling: environmentally friendly materials and the circular economy are becoming increasingly important.

Growth opportunities and new business models

Holographic technologies for adaptive vision aids: Glasses that dynamically adjust their prescription could replace traditional varifocals.
Optical companies as healthcare providers: providers combine prevention, diagnostics and smart vision solutions.
Quantum computing for optics development: simulation of new designs and materials using high-performance computers.
Online optometry & AI consulting: AI-supported tools analyze visual needs and recommend tailor-made solutions.

Challenges: Disruptive technologies and new competitors

Market changes by tech companies: Companies with AI and semiconductor expertise could displace traditional providers.
Holographic displays as a potential disruption: digital projections could replace conventional lenses in the long term.
Medical innovations reduce the need for visual aids: Gene therapies or regenerative technologies could permanently correct visual impairments.
Growing competition from AI-supported production: companies that do not invest in automation risk being at a competitive disadvantage.

Ophthalmic optics as a key industry of the future

“Our study shows that technology-driven industries in particular have enormous potential. They can take advantage of the opportunities for major transformative changes – provided they invest with a good degree of risk tolerance and enthusiasm for the future,” explains Prof. Dr. Pero Mićić, CEO of FutureManagementGroup AG.

Mirjam Rösch, Chairwoman of Consumer Optics at SPECTARIS, adds: “Ophthalmic optics is not only an important industry of the future, but also a central component of healthcare. In order to remain competitive in the long term, we need to create innovation-friendly framework conditions. This includes targeted funding programs for digital healthcare solutions, regulatory relief for new technologies and greater support for sustainable production processes. Germany can play a pioneering role here – but this requires decisive political decisions.”

The full study results and a video explaining them, both available in German language, are available here:

https://www.futuremanagementgroup.com/zukunftsbranchen-2025-2040