October 27, 2025 : In a candid conversation with Moneycontrol, Lenskart CEO and co-founder Peyush Bansal shared his thoughts on the company’s upcoming Initial Public Offering (IPO), entrepreneurship, and the emotional side of being a promoter. Emphasizing that an IPO is not an exit event, Bansal said it marks “just another milestone” in Lenskart’s growth journey.
“An IPO is not about getting out; it’s about bringing more people into the journey,” Bansal remarked. “As promoters, we are deeply attached to what we’ve built. There’s a huge emotional angle involved — it’s not just numbers or valuation.”
Lenskart, one of India’s largest eyewear retailers, has seen remarkable growth since its founding in 2010. The company has expanded across India and globally, with a strong presence in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. It recently achieved a valuation of around $5 billion, backed by investors such as SoftBank, KKR, and Temasek.
Speaking about the IPO plans, Bansal explained that going public would strengthen governance, improve transparency, and allow retail investors to participate in the company’s success story. “We are still deciding on the right time and market conditions. The idea is to build something long-lasting, not to time the market,” he said.
When asked about being a promoter in India’s fast-evolving startup ecosystem, Bansal highlighted the responsibility and attachment that come with the role. “As promoters, we are emotionally invested — not just financially. We feel accountable to every customer, employee, and partner. That’s what keeps us going every day,” he added.
Bansal, who also gained public recognition as a Shark Tank India judge, said that entrepreneurship in India has matured, and founders today are focusing more on sustainability and purpose than short-term valuations. “The startup wave in India is entering a phase of depth and maturity. People are building real businesses that solve real problems,” he noted.
He also shared his belief that successful companies are built on trust and long-term thinking, not quick exits. “There’s a difference between being an entrepreneur and being a promoter. A promoter is a builder for life — someone who stays even when things get tough,” Bansal said.
Lenskart’s consistent expansion, customer-focused innovations like 3D try-on technology, and integration of AI in eye testing and frame selection have helped it retain a competitive edge. The company continues to pursue omnichannel growth through both online and offline strategies.
As the eyewear unicorn prepares for its next phase, Bansal reiterated that the company’s mission remains unchanged — “to help the world see better.” He expressed optimism about India’s retail and consumer market, calling it one of the most exciting and transformative spaces for entrepreneurs.
Summary
Lenskart CEO Peyush Bansal says the company’s IPO is not an exit but a milestone, emphasizing emotional ownership, long-term vision, and responsible entrepreneurship as key to sustainable success.