For many Canadians, shopping at Hakim Optical is part of everyday life—whether it’s getting that first pair of glasses, upgrading to stylish new frames, or bringing the kids in before back-to-school. But behind the familiar red logo and memorable jingle is a story that starts long before the first retail store opened its doors.
Hakim Optical has been proudly Canadian since 1967, growing from a small lens laboratory into one of the country’s most recognizable eyewear destinations, with locations from coast to coast.
From One-Man Lens Lab to National Optical Chain
The story begins with founder Sir Hakimi, who learned the craft of grinding lenses as a youth in Iran before honing his skills in Germany and Switzerland. When he immigrated to Canada, he started modestly—running a lens-grinding lab and selling lenses directly to local opticians.
In 1967, he took a bold step and opened his own retail location, combining lens manufacturing expertise with direct service to customers. What began as a single shop has since grown into a national chain with over 170 locations serving communities across Canada.
Today, that same spirit of hands-on craftsmanship lives on in Hakim Optical’s in-house labs and lens centres, where teams continue to focus on quality, precision, and value.
Proudly Canadian Since 1967
Being “Proudly Canadian since 1967” isn’t just a tagline—it reflects decades of serving Canadian families where they live, work, and study.
Over the years, Hakim Optical has:
- Expanded to more than 170 showrooms and one-hour factory outlets across multiple provinces
- Supported communities with accessible eyewear at a range of price points
- Helped generations of Canadians transition from their first pair of glasses to more advanced options as their needs change
You can explore more about this journey on Hakim’s dedicated Our History page, which highlights key milestones and growth over the decades.
A Legacy Built on Lens Expertise and Quality
Because Hakim Optical started as a lens lab, lens quality has always been at the heart of the brand. Their teams have invested in technology and manufacturing processes that deliver precise, high-performance lenses for everyday wear.
That focus on quality shows up in every pair of glasses—whether you’re choosing:
- Fashion-forward women’s glasses
- Modern men’s frames
- Durable kids’ frames designed to keep up with busy schedules
If you’re curious about what goes into a great lens, Hakim’s lens guide breaks down the different options and coatings available to help you make an informed choice.
Serving Generations of Canadian Families
After nearly six decades in business, many customers who came in as children are now bringing in their own kids and grandkids. That multi-generational loyalty comes from a combination of value, selection, and service.
Families rely on Hakim Optical for:
- Everyday eyeglasses for work and school
- Children’s glasses with scratch-resistant lenses and kid-friendly designs
- Sunglasses for year-round UV protection
- Contact lenses and other specialty options
Parents looking for guidance on their child’s vision can also browse Hakim’s eye care for kids resources before their next visit.
Why Experience Matters When Choosing Where to Buy Glasses
In a world of online-only eyewear and fast trends, experience still matters. Hakim Optical has sold tens of millions of pairs of glasses across Canada, backed by in-house lens manufacturing and licensed opticians in every location.
That long history translates into real benefits when you’re ready to buy new glasses:
- Teams who understand fit, comfort, and style for different face shapes
- Advice on lens choices that suit your prescription and daily routine
- A wide range of frames—from classic looks to bold, fashion-forward styles
For many shoppers, that’s why Hakim Optical remains one of the best places to buy high-quality frames and lenses in Canada.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter for Hakim Optical
Even after decades in business, Hakim Optical continues to evolve—bringing in new styles, updating technology in its labs, and expanding services to meet modern eye-care needs. Hakim Optical
Whether you’re:
- Choosing your first pair of women’s glasses,
- Updating your men’s frames for work,
- Picking out kids’ glasses before school starts, or
- Booking an eye exam to check your prescription,
you’re stepping into a brand with a long, proud history of helping Canadians see clearly.If you’ve ever wondered how long Hakim Optical has been in business, the answer is simple: since 1967—and they’re still focused on doing what they’ve always done best: providing stylish, high-quality eyewear for Canadians from coast to coast.