The Pan African eyewear brand, Lapaire, expanded its footprint significantly, opening 31 new branches across its operational countries in 2024. This expansion is part of its broader initiative to enhance optical care availability across Africa.
According to Jérôme Lapaire, the founder and chief executive officer, by the close of the same year, the company was operating 91 branches and had conducted over 275,000 free eye tests, encouraging its rapid growth and ability to bring essential eye care services closer to underserved populations.
Jerome also revealed that 80% of their customers were either completely new to wearing glasses or had previously worn glasses but were no longer using them.
These figures highlight Lapaire’s role in introducing stylish eyewear at a fair price to people who might otherwise lack access to this essential tool for daily life and productivity.
“We have reinforced our footprint by focusing on our customers needs, Jérôme Lapaire explained.
Lapaire remains committed to deepening its presence in its existing countries. By continuing to open branches, expand partnerships with companies, schools, and community organisations, and leverage digital channels, the company plans to enhance its reach and further solidify its impact.
On his part, Louis Gascoin, the Chief Operating Officer, notes that they aim to expand their geographical reach by entering three new markets, namely Senegal, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in 2025.
“We have identified these 3 countries as major markets in terms of population; however, they remain underserved in terms of accessible eye care services and stylish eyeglasses. Our offer will be of great value for the people in these countries, Louis Gascoin said.
These expansions represent strategic opportunities to serve millions more individuals in need of eye care. Each of these countries presents unique challenges and opportunities, and Lapaire is well-prepared to adapt its model to local contexts while maintaining its core values of transparency, accessibility, and quality.
Lapaireʼs ambitions for 2025 also include a continued focus on innovation. The company plans to develop the current product range by offering more choice in frames, adding different materials, colours, and unique shapes, and catering to evolving customer needs.
Lapaireʼs journey is a testament to the power of purpose-driven business. By addressing a critical public health issue and making quality vision care accessible, the company is not only transforming individual lives but also contributing to broader socio-economic development. Good vision enhances education outcomes, boosts workplace productivity, and improves quality of life that resonates far beyond individual customers.
As Lapaire embarks on another transformative year, its vision remains clear: to create a world where everyone can see and seize opportunities. With a strong foundation of achievements in 2024, a customer-centric approach, and bold ambitions for 2025, Lapaire is set to continue redefining the eyewear industry in Africa and beyond. Its story is one of resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to making vision care a reality for all.
Through its dynamic growth, strategic product development, and innovation, Lapaire has firmly solidified its position as a market leader in the eye care industry in Africa. By blending social impact with business acumen, the brand has strengthened its reputation and long-term viability.
Its campaigns reach everyone, from tailors and taxi drivers to students, doctors, and accountants, underscoring its inclusive approach. More than a business, Lapaire is a driving force for change, addressing the silent crisis of uncorrected vision problems affecting millions across Africa.
On the verge of reaching a remarkable milestone of 100 branches, a significant step in expanding its network across Africa. This success has been made possible thanks to the continued trust of people who see in Lapaire a reliable partner in their journey toward better eye care. This 100th branch represents an important milestone in its commitment to improving eye health in Africa.
