Radhakishan Damani, the billionaire investor who established Avenue Supermarts (DMart), has reportedly put approximately Rs 90 crore into Lenskart Solutions, an eyewear retail company, through a pre-IPO funding round.

This investment precedes Lenskart's first public offering, which is anticipated to launch for public subscription in the coming week.

The eyewear company aims to generate Rs 2,150 crore through new equity share issuance, while promoters and existing investors plan to sell 13.22 crore equity shares, as outlined in the Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP).

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Under the offer for sale (OFS), promoters including Peyush Bansal, Neha Bansal, Amit Chaudhary and Sumeet Kapahi, along with investors such as SVF II Lightbulb (Cayman) Ltd, Schroders Capital Private Equity Asia Mauritius Ltd, PI Opportunities Fund – II, Macritchie Investments Pte. Ltd., Kedaara Capital Fund II LLP, and Alpha Wave Ventures LP will divest their holdings.

skart plans to deploy the IPO funds across several strategic areas, including capital investments for establishing new Company-operated Company-owned (CoCo) outlets in India, covering lease, rental, and licensing costs for these stores, enhancing technology and cloud infrastructure, conducting brand marketing and promotional activities to boost brand recognition, pursuing potential unspecified inorganic acquisitions, and addressing general corporate requirements.

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The latest funding from notable investors such as Radhakishan Damani and a leading mutual fund demonstrates significant market trust in Lenskart's operational approach and expansion prospects.

With the company gearing up for its stock market launch, both investors and industry observers will be eager to witness how Lenskart utilizes its market standing and tech advancements to fuel upcoming expansion in the challenging eyewear industry.

 

The initial public offering will serve as an important measure of investor interest in technology-driven retail companies in India, particularly those maintaining robust physical operations alongside their digital infrastructure. It will also be compelling to watch how Lenskart's market entry affects the wider eyewear industry and may encourage additional technological advancement within the field.

As one of India's leading omni-channel eyewear retailers, the company provides an extensive selection of cost-effective and stylish prescription glasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses through its digital platform and widespread retail presence.

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Established in 2008, Lenskart began its journey as a digital eyewear retailer in 2010 and launched its inaugural brick-and-mortar location in New Delhi during 2013. Throughout its development, the company has transformed into a leading consumer brand within India's eyewear industry.

The organization maintains operations throughout metropolitan areas, Tier-1, and Tier-2 urban centers, while also conducting business internationally in Southeast Asia and Middle Eastern markets.