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What’s the Difference Between OEM and ODM in Eyewear? How Should Brands Choose?

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What’s the Difference Between OEM and ODM in Eyewear? How Should Brands Choose?

May 22, 2025

What’s the Difference Between OEM and ODM in Eyewear? How Should Brands Choose?

Understanding the distinctions between OEM and ODM is crucial for any brand planning to launch or expand its eyewear product line. Whether you're a startup seeking fast market entry or an established label focused on innovation, choosing the right production model can shape your success.


Definitions: What Are OEM and ODM in the Eyewear Industry?

OEM – Original Equipment Manufacturer

OEM refers to a model where the supplier manufactures products based on the client’s design. In eyewear, that means the brand provides specifications such as materials, shapes, colors, and even packaging, while the manufacturer focuses on efficient production.

Example: You send your acetate frame design to a factory, and they produce it exactly as instructed.

ODM – Original Design Manufacturer

ODM, on the other hand, involves the manufacturer providing a complete design solution, from concept to product. The brand can choose from existing designs or request adjustments before branding the final product.

Example: You browse a catalog of in-house sunglass designs, tweak the color or material, and add your logo.


OEM vs ODM: Pros and Cons

Criteria OEM ODM
Design Autonomy Full control Limited, unless heavily customized
Cost Higher (custom molds, R&D costs) Lower (shared development costs)
Speed to Market Slower (design iterations required) Faster (ready-to-use templates)
Brand Originality Unique products Similar to other brands using same design
Risk Management More responsibility on the brand Manufacturer shares more risk

Which Model Suits Your Brand?

For New Brands or Startups

If you're new to the eyewear industry or testing the market, ODM is often the smarter choice. It allows you to:

  • Reduce investment in design and development

  • Launch faster with proven, trendy styles

  • Focus on marketing and brand-building

Tip: Many ODM manufacturers offer low MOQs (minimum order quantities), making it easier to test without high risk.

For Established or Premium Brands

Brands with strong identity and loyal audiences benefit more from OEM partnerships because they can:

  • Create exclusive designs that reflect their unique brand story

  • Exercise full control over materials, dimensions, and finishing

  • Strengthen product differentiation in competitive markets


Making the Right Choice: Strategic Considerations

1. Budget & Timeline

  • Limited funds or tight launch deadlines? Go ODM.

  • Want long-term product control and IP ownership? OEM is worth it.

2. Branding Goals

  • Need to stand out with unique frame silhouettes? OEM

  • Focused more on cost efficiency and product variety? ODM

3. Target Market Expectations

  • Luxury consumers demand exclusivity → OEM

  • Fast-fashion retailers want trend alignment at low cost → ODM


How Jingseyewear Supports OEM & ODM Clients

At Jingseyewear, we provide both flexible OEM and trend-focused ODM services.

  • Strong in-house design team to create market-ready concepts

  • Custom logo printing, mold development, and packaging for OEM

  • Trend monitoring and seasonal catalogs for ODM

  • Scalable production and rigorous quality control

Learn more about our design capabilities
See our service process in detail


Conclusion: Match the Model with Your Brand Positioning

There's no one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, base your decision on:

  • Brand maturity

  • Design capacity

  • Investment scope

  • Market expectations

Both OEM and ODM have their place in building a successful eyewear business—the key is aligning your strategy with your goals.

 


FAQs

Q1: Can I switch from ODM to OEM later?
Yes! Many brands start with ODM to reduce risk and shift to OEM when they’ve built brand awareness and market understanding.

Q2: How much does OEM eyewear production usually cost?
Costs vary by design complexity and materials. Expect higher mold fees and sampling costs than ODM.

Q3: Is ODM bad for brand originality?
Not necessarily. Many ODM partners allow light customization to help differentiate your brand.

Q4: Do OEM products have better quality than ODM?
Not inherently. Quality depends on the manufacturer’s capabilities. Jingseyewear ensures high QC standards for both.

Q5: What’s the minimum order for ODM/OEM at Jingseyewear?
Our typical MOQ starts at 300 pieces per model per color, but we’re flexible for startup-friendly projects.

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