High street at saturation point

Most major retail chains are reaching saturation point, the potential for expansion in most towns is limited and the acquisition of one of the chains by a competitor or big product supplier is likely.

These are among the findings of a major report on the optical market by Mintel. Despite tough market conditions the market is still growing, says the report, buoyed up by designer spectacles and contact lens sales.

Since Mintel's last report two years ago the market has expanded by 9.2 per cent to a value of £2.5bn. However, no growth is expected by Mintel in the years to 2012 as the saturation on the high street takes effect and the economy slows.