Warby Parker's China Sourcing Playbook: Direct Factory Relationships That Disrupt Markets

Over 20 years of sourcing from China, I've seen brands succeed by doing exactly what Warby Parker did: build a direct relationship with a Chinese factory, control the supply chain, and use that advantage to offer premium products at a fraction of the cost. Their story is a playbook for any American business looking to import goods profitably—especially in categories traditionally dominated by high markups.

Warby Parker – China Sourcing

Warby Parker was established by two entrepreneurs: David Gilboa and Neil Blumenthal, “to inspire and impact the world with vision, purpose, and style.”

It offers fashionable eyeglass frames at competitive prices. The cheapest glasses cost $95 (including prescription lenses). The company managed to cut the price by using the internet as the main distribution network and establishing a close relationship with a Chinese factory that manufactures all frames. Aside from a direct-to-consumer business model, Warby Parker operates 169 retail stores. The company owners often visit Chinese partners and are familiar with the production process.

Moreover, the company runs the Buy a Pair, Give a Pair program, to alleviate the problem of impaired vision of the unprivileged.

Generally, glasses are expensive because most glasses stores/manufacturers are owned under one umbrella. Sourcing from China for cheap, being excellent at marketing, offering fun & trendy eyeglasses, streamlining the order process to 10 minutes, and caring about charity – it all paid off for WB. Its eyeglasses are a great alternative to what is usually available in the market.

Below is a short interview with the founders of WP.

Warby Parker's success proves that sourcing from China isn't just about slashing prices—it's about strategic partnerships that give you control over quality and delivery. Before you place your first order, take a page from their playbook: verify your supplier's capabilities with a factory inspection or quality control check. At China-Check, we help you vet factories so you can focus on building your brand.