Lenskart Solutions has implemented AI-enabled remote eye-testing technology across more than 500 stores as a strategic response to the persistent shortage of qualified optometrists across its markets in India, South-East Asia, and West Asia. The recently-listed company has repeatedly flagged the limited availability of qualified optometrists as a key operational risk in its regulatory filings.

AI-Powered Remote Testing Model

The company has deployed a centralized remote testing system where optometrists connect to stores through video links and proprietary AI-enabled diagnostic equipment. This model allows optometrists to effectively "teleport" into stores across the country, enabling a single optometrist to conduct significantly more eye tests than traditional store-bound setups.

According to company operations personnel, high-volume or clinically complex locations may continue to have on-site optometrists, but newer or lower-volume stores are increasingly designed around remote-testing from day one. The company expects remote and self-optometry to become the default foundational layer of eyecare delivery as it expands into underpenetrated markets.

Significant Volume Growth

The implementation has delivered substantial results in testing volumes. In the first half of FY26, Lenskart conducted 9.3 million eye tests in India, surpassing the total for the entire FY24. Eye test volumes grew 47% year-on-year, driven largely by the remote-testing capability.

The company also offers home eye tests in major cities, where routing algorithms assign the nearest available optometrist, enabling tests to be completed within 60 minutes.

Industry Comparison and Clinical Concerns

Lenskart's approach contrasts with its closest competitor, Titan Eye+, which continues to rely on traditional in-store clinical testing by optometrists. Titan Eye+ offers a "20-step zero-error" eye test performed by trained professionals.

Health experts have raised concerns about the clinical implications of AI-led retail-first models. Dr. Rajeev Prasad, secretary of the Indian Optometry Association and president of the Asia Pacific Council of Optometry, emphasizes that optometry's core value lies in preventive care, early detection, and timely referral, not merely prescribing glasses. The eye allows specialists to directly observe blood vessels and flag early signs of conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders.

Market Dynamics and Workforce Challenges

The optometry sector faces significant workforce challenges despite producing an estimated 6,000-7,000 bachelor-level optometrists annually. Many qualified professionals report unemployment or underemployment, with the gap driven by low compensation levels.

Three optometrists working at Lenskart stores reported being diploma holders earning between ₹20,000.00 and ₹25,000.00 per month. Industry experts note that large chains disproportionately hire diploma holders or short-course technicians, creating quality and accountability variations.

Technology and Liability Implications

Experts highlight that liability in technology-driven systems becomes more diffused. While licensed clinicians continue to bear responsibility for individual prescriptions, liability partly sits with technology architects managing data quality in AI-assisted practices. The model represents a centralization of clinical judgment with AI-enabled augmentation rather than pure automation, fundamentally changing the risk profile as scale multiplies both efficiency and consequences of potential failures.

Lenskart Solutions Limited has officially incorporated Stellio Ventures UK Ltd as a step-down subsidiary, effective January 5, 2026, marking a strategic expansion into the UK eyewear market under the established 'Meller' brand.

Official Incorporation Details

According to the regulatory filing dated January 6, 2026, Stellio Ventures, S.L., a subsidiary of Lenskart Solutions Limited, has incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary named Stellio Ventures UK Ltd in England and Wales. The new entity becomes a step-down subsidiary of the parent company with specific objectives for UK market penetration.

Strategic Business Objectives

Stellio Ventures UK Ltd has been incorporated with the primary objective of selling eyewear products and related accessories under the 'Meller' brand in the United Kingdom. The subsidiary is yet to commence business operations, positioning itself as a key vehicle for Lenskart's UK market strategy.

Ownership Structure and Investment

The ownership structure reveals Lenskart Solutions Limited's indirect control through its subsidiary network. Stellio Ventures, S.L. will subscribe to the ordinary share capital of GBP 100, representing 100% of the share capital in the UK entity.

Regulatory Compliance

The incorporation has been disclosed under Regulation 30 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015. The filing indicates that no governmental or regulatory approvals were required for the incorporation, and the entity operates within the retail eyewear industry segment.

Market Expansion Impact

This incorporation represents Lenskart's continued international expansion efforts, providing direct access to the UK eyewear market through the established 'Meller' brand. The step-down subsidiary structure allows for operational flexibility while maintaining strategic control over the UK operations.