An international optical franchise network

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In this article you will learn

• Overview of Alain Afflelou’s business and the services offered in optical and hearing care

• Locations of franchise stores in Europe and other regions

• Requirements for becoming a franchisee and joining the network

• Initial investment costs and ongoing fees for franchise owners

• Support provided by the franchisor and main responsibilities of franchisees

Alain Afflelou is an optical and hearing care company founded in France in 1972. The network operates retail stores providing eye examinations, prescription glasses, contact lenses and hearing aids. The company has developed a standardized retail concept that combines optical services with centralized purchasing, marketing campaigns and store design guidelines. Expansion has been carried out mainly through franchising, allowing independent entrepreneurs to operate stores under the Alain Afflelou brand.

International presence of the franchise

The Alain Afflelou franchise network is present in approximately 19 countries. Most locations are situated in Europe, including France, Spain, Belgium, Portugal and Switzerland. The brand also operates in selected markets in Africa, the Middle East and South America. In total, the network consists of more than 1,400 optical and hearing care stores worldwide, operated by franchisees or partners depending on the local market structure.

Becoming a franchisee

Candidates interested in joining the Alain Afflelou franchise network usually need professional qualifications in optics or audiology, depending on national regulations. In some markets, business investors may cooperate with licensed opticians. The recruitment process includes an application, evaluation of professional experience, and discussions regarding location, store format and financial capacity. Final approval depends on local legal requirements and the franchisor’s internal assessment.

Investment and ongoing financial obligations

The financial commitment varies by country and store size. The required personal contribution typically starts at around €30,000 to €50,000. Total initial investment, excluding real estate costs, generally ranges from approximately €80,000 to €250,000. Franchisees are required to pay ongoing royalties calculated as a percentage of turnover, commonly around 4 to 4.15 percent. Additional contributions may apply for national or international marketing activities, depending on the market.

Support provided by the franchisor

Alain Afflelou provides support to franchisees during the setup phase and throughout the operation of the store. This includes assistance with market analysis, site selection, store layout, and administrative procedures. Franchisees and their staff have access to training programs through internal academies. Ongoing support covers operational guidance, purchasing systems, marketing tools and performance monitoring.

Revenue expectations and operational responsibilities

Revenue levels depend on location, local demand, store size and management. While the franchisor publishes aggregated network sales data, individual store performance is not guaranteed. Franchisees are responsible for daily operations, employment of staff, compliance with professional regulations, customer service, financial management and adherence to brand standards. They also implement marketing initiatives developed at network level.

Development plans

The company continues to expand its optical and hearing care network, with new store openings planned each year in existing and emerging markets. Future development focuses on strengthening international presence, adapting store formats to local regulations and integrating digital solutions related to vision testing and customer service.

Main conclusions

• Number of stores – over 1,400 stores worldwide

• Countries of operation – approximately 19 countries in Europe, Africa, Middle East, and South America

• Founding year – 1972, franchising started in 1978

• Initial investment – between €80,000 and €250,000 depending on location and store size

• Personal contribution – €30,000 to €50,000 required from franchisee

• Ongoing fees – around 4–4.15% of store turnover, plus possible marketing contributions

• Annual new stores – 50 to 80 openings planned in existing and emerging markets

• Services offered per store – eye exams, prescription glasses, contact lenses, hearing aids

• Franchisee responsibilities – daily store operations, staff management, customer service, adherence to brand standards

Author

Marian Bomba

Journalist