The Optical Market in Brazil Generates R$25 Billion Annually, Marking the Return of the Traditional Óticas Ernesto

Now open to franchisees, the brand is part of the Ralson Group, which is expanding across the country

The optical market has become one of the most significant investment sectors in Brazil. According to IBGE, approximately 100 million people require vision correction, with 68 million still unaware of this need. The excessive use of screens for work and reading, for instance, directly accelerates the demand for products in this niche. As a result, over 70% of prescription glasses users consider their glasses essential for daily life, according to research by Abióptica.

Given this expanding market, businesses must stay alert to new trends and evolving demands within the global optical industry, even those with a long-standing presence. Óticas Ernesto, a brand with over half a century of history, has successfully blended modernity with tradition. Founded in 1947, Óticas Ernesto has become a prominent name in Bahia’s optical market. Recently acquired by a new group, the brand is now poised for nationwide growth.

This business, a pioneer in Bahia’s capital, has made a significant impact on the local optical sector. With the industry’s steady growth, Óticas Ernesto has transformed its longstanding tradition into a unique brand identity, remaining relevant 77 years after its founding. Now, as part of the Grupo Ralson conglomerate (@ralsongrupo) led by businessman Rafael Alonso (@alonsorafa), alongside Ótica Salvador (@oticasalvador), the brand is expanding its franchise network.

The brands, which have been strategically relaunched, currently boast more than 25 points of sale across eight cities, with 15 of these operating under a franchise model. Expansion plans target 30 stores by 2024. Óticas Ernesto remains the most traditional brand in the group, catering to customers who value reliability and a classic approach.

Recent data confirms the market’s upward trajectory. The Brazilian Association of Optical Industries reported a 12.5% revenue increase in the sector from January to September 2022 compared to the same period in 2021, when sales reached approximately R$22 billion. This demand is expected to persist: the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that half of the global population will be myopic by 2050.

For those who wish to be a franchisee of Óticas Ernesto, you should contact us via e-mail Franchise@gruporalson.com or by telephone (71) 99670-1161.