The Austria hearing aid retailers market size was estimated at USD 180.75 million in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.12% from 2025 to 2030. Growing public awareness and de-stigmatization of hearing aid usage are driving market growth. Furthermore, rapidly aging population and favorable healthcare policies are supplementing this growth. For instance , in November 2024, the population forecast from Statistics Austria indicates that the population will increase by 5.5%, reaching 9.6 million by 2040. The growth will be especially pronounced among individuals aged 65 and older, whose share is projected to rise from 19.7% currently to 26.7% by 2040. By 2080, the overall population is anticipated to further expand to 10.2 million, with 29.3% of that group being 65 years or older. This aging trend contributes to a higher incidence of age-related hearing loss, creating sustained demand for hearing aids and related services.
The industry is witnessing a notable shift toward eco-friendly technologies, with a strong focus on reducing reliance on disposable batteries and embracing sustainable alternatives. Rechargeable hearing aids powered by renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, are gaining popularity for their ability to minimize environmental impact by lowering the volume of hazardous battery waste. In response to growing consumer demand for energy-efficient and environmentally responsible products, manufacturers are incorporating eco-friendly materials and innovative designs. Sonova’s IntACT ESG strategy exemplifies this commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, significantly influencing its subsidiaries such as HANSATON in Austria. HANSATON’s range of rechargeable hearing aids, such as the AQ SHD series, reflects this environmentally conscious approach, offering long-lasting, battery-free operation that aligns with broader ecological goals.
Government subsidies and reimbursement schemes have significantly propelled the market in Austria by making devices more financially accessible to a broader segment of the population. A key example is the support provided by the Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK), which covers a substantial portion, and often the entire cost of hearing aids for individuals with a medical prescription. Under this system, patients typically need to pay a co-payment of about 10%, with a minimum charge of around USD 48.9, while the remainder of the cost is subsidized by health insurance. This reimbursement model reduces financial barriers and promotes early intervention and wider adoption of hearing aids.
Aspect |
Early Framework |
Modern Framework |
Funding Model |
Primarily private; minimal public insurance support. |
Statutory insurance provides partial coverage. |
Access |
Limited, especially for low-income groups. |
Broader access but with some remaining costs. |
Role of HTA |
Not utilized. |
Integral in determining device eligibility. |
Eligibility Criteria |
No standardized guidelines; case-by-case basis. |
Clear criteria based on medical assessments. |
Patient Outcomes |
Inconsistent due to financial barriers. |
Improved outcomes with wider access. |
Public Perception |
Hearing aids viewed as individual responsibility. |
Recognized as essential public health tools. |
In 2024, market is driven by key factors such as revenue performance, extensive distribution networks, and high unit sales, which reflect both financial strength and consumer demand.
Pricing Analysis |
Pricing Elasticity Insights |
Average Customer Lifetime Value (CLTV) |
Low-End Segment: Commoditization and price sensitivity; expected shift to mid-range. |
Low-End: Highly elastic; affordability-focused consumers |
Low-End: USD 1,250- 1,648; limited repeat purchases and servicing. |
Mid & High-End Segments: Premiumization driven by AI, Bluetooth, and noise reduction. |
Mid-Range: Moderately elastic; influenced by technological differentiation.
|
Mid-Range: USD 3,977-5,114 driven by periodic upgrades |
|
High-End: Inelastic; quality and advanced features drive demand. |
High-End: USD 5,682 -7,955 due to frequent upgrades and servicing. |
New Revenue Streams and Business Models In Austria
Subscription Model: Hearing aids in Austria often come with out-of-pocket expenses, and high inflation has led many consumers to opt for cheaper options. The subscription facility allow customers to pay a manageable monthly fee instead of a large upfront cost, making hearing aids more accessible. |
Omni-channel Model Austria’s solid digital infrastructure promotes the growth of omni-channels for hearing aids, helping reduce dependence on high-cost physical retail. MySecond Ear operates as a hybrid hearing aids retailer, combining online consultation and sales with physical store support. The platform emphasizes cost transparency, remote fitting services, and customer-centric trial periods, catering to price-sensitive and tech-savvy consumers. |
Buying Group Model Independent retailers can improve pricing and profitability by joining buying groups, enhancing their competitiveness against larger chains. United Optics and hörakustik partner OG operates a buying group business with the aim to form a buying group, which enhances competitiveness and provide tailored, high-quality products and services by pooling resources and independent retailers. |
In-house Insurance Model Rising inflation in Austria, which particularly affects middle and low-income groups, makes offering in-house insurance a strategic move for Neuroth to enhance its market share while simultaneously reducing outlet costs.By managing its insurance program, Neuroth is expected to streamline operations and reduce reliance on external insurers. This could lead to lower administrative costs associated with claims processing and customer service. |
The chart below illustrates the relationship between market concentration, market characteristics, and market participants. The x-axis represents the level of market concentration, ranging from low to high. The y-axis represents various market characteristics, including degree of innovation, level of merger & acquisition, impact of regulation, and market expansion. The degree of innovation is medium, the level of merger & acquisition activities is low, the impact of regulations on the market is high, the market expansion is medium.The market exhibits a moderate degree of innovation, driven by increasing consumer demand for advanced auditory solutions, rising awareness of hearing health, and a strong focus on digital transformation. Leading retailers such as Hartlauer, Neuroth, and Hansaton are integrating cutting-edge technologies such as AI-powered hearing aids, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone app compatibility into their product offerings. In addition, many retailers are enhancing customer experience through remote fitting services, tele-audiology, and online hearing tests. In March 2023, USound, a prominent provider of advanced audio technology, announced its partnership with various collaborators to create and produce a reference design for a state-of-the-art over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid. This reference design incorporate ASE’s Micro SiP (System-in-Package), OBO Pro2’s innovative hearing aid design, and USound’s latest Kore 4.0 audio module, resulting in the most sophisticated hearing aid available on the market.
Several key market players are devising business growth strategies in the form of mergers and acquisitions. Through M&A activity, these companies is expected to expand their business geographies. In October 2024, MED-EL announced its acquisition of BHM-Tech, an Austrian company specializing in bone conduction hearing systems. This merger strengthened MED-EL's position in the hearing solutions sector and enhances its product portfolio with BHM-Tech's innovative technology for people with hearing loss.
Regulatory developments, particularly the implementation of the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) and EU-recognition procedures for professional qualifications, have significantly influenced Austria's hearing aid retailer market. Enhanced safety standards and streamlined qualification recognition across EU/EEA countries have bolstered consumer confidence and facilitated a more dynamic and competitive retail environment. Moreover, the MDR’s emphasis on safety and performance has encouraged innovation among manufacturers, allowing retailers to offer advanced digital and telehealth-integrated hearing aids.
Several market players are expanding their business by entering new geographical regions to strengthen their market position and expand their product portfolio. In December 2024, the Austrian hearing aid company Neuroth plans to establish a factory in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, with an investment of USD 2.08 million. This facility will mark Neuroth's inaugural production site outside of Austria and is anticipated to be operational by the close of 2025.
On the basis of type, the receiver-in-the-ear hearing aids segment held the largest revenue share of 75.76% in 2024. The growth of the segment can be attributed to the increasing consumer preference for discreet, high-performance, and technologically advanced devices. RITE models, which separate the receiver from the microphone and amplifier, offer a more natural sound experience and smaller form factor compared to traditional behind-the-ear (BTE) models. For instance, the Phonak Audéo Lumity series by Sonova is a notable RITE hearing aid that features SpeechSensor technology, enhancing speech understanding in noisy environments by focusing on sounds from various directions. Its universal Bluetooth connectivity allows pairing with smartphones, tablets, and TVs. Such advanced features of receiver-in-the-ear hearing aids are driving market growth.
The behind-the-ear hearing aids segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. Continuous innovation in BTE hearing aids, such as improved sound quality, noise reduction features, Bluetooth connectivity, and rechargeable batteries is driving segmental growth. Moreover, increasing product launches and approval will drive the market growth. In February 2024, ReSound announced the launch of rechargeable Behind-the-Ear (BTE) and in-ear custom models to its popular Nexia hearing aid line, emphasizing the innovative features of these industry-first devices that incorporate Bluetooth Low-Energy (LE) along with Auracast audio broadcast technology.
On the basis of technology, digital held the largest revenue share of 94.69% in 2024. The digital segment is experiencing significant growth driven by technological advancements and the increasing demand for high-quality, customizable hearing solutions. Digital hearing aids, which convert sound into a digital signal for processing, offer superior sound clarity, advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity and remote control via mobile apps. Moreover, digital hearing aids can be programmed and adjusted remotely by audiologists, which appeals to the tech-savvy younger demographic who value convenience and efficiency in their healthcare. Such advantages associated with digital hearing aids are driving market growth.
The analog segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of over the forecast period, driven by cost-effectiveness and simplicity. Analog hearing aids are often priced more affordably than their digital counterparts, making them an appealing option for consumers who have basic hearing needs or are looking for budget-friendly solutions. Furthermore, the lower maintenance cost and straightforward operation make analog hearing aids an attractive choice for older users or those who experience only mild to moderate hearing loss. In addition, rising awareness of hearing loss and its impact on health and well-being is supplementing segmental growth.
The market is highly consolidated, dominated by three major national chains: Neuroth, Hartlauer, and Hansaton. The remaining market share is fragmented, consisting of independent audiologists and smaller retail groups Key players are adopting growth strategies to enhance their market presence, including collaborations and mergers & acquisitions.
Report Attribute |
Details |
Revenue forecast in 2025 |
USD 200.29 million |
Revenue forecast in 2030 |
USD 309.88 million |
Growth rate |
CAGR of 9.12% from 2025 to 2030 |
Actual data |
2018 - 2024 |
Forecast data |
2025 - 2030 |
Quantitative units |
Revenue in USD million/billion and CAGR from 2025 to 2030 |
Report coverage |
Revenue forecast, company ranking, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends |
Segments covered |
Type, technology |
Key companies profiled |
Hartlauer; Sonova AG; KIND Hearing Pte Ltd; Fielmann Group AG; Bloom; United Optics GmbH; Vienna Akustik; MicroTech; Neuroth; GN Hearing Austria GmbH |
Customization scope |
Free report customization (equivalent up to 8 analysts working days) with purchase. Addition or alteration to country, regional & segment scope. |
Pricing and purchase options |
Avail customized purchase options to meet your exact research needs. Explore purchase options |
This report forecasts revenue growth, country level and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the Austria hearing aid retailers market report based on type, and technology.
Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
In-the-Ear Hearing Aids
Receiver-In-the-Ear Hearing Aids
Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids
Canal Hearing Aids
Technology Size Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Digital
Analog
b. The Austria retail hearing aids retailers market size was estimated at USD 180.75 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 200.29 million in 2025.
b. The Austria retail hearing aids retailers market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 9.12% from 2025 to 2030 to reach USD 309.88 million by 2030.
b. Receiver-in-the-ear hearing aids segment dominated the Austria retail hearing aids retailers market with a share of 75.76% in 2024. The growth of the segment can be attributed to the increasing consumer preference for discreet, high-performance, and technologically advanced devices.
b. Some key players operating in the Austria retail hearing aids retailers market are Hartlauer, Sonova AG, KIND Hearing Pte Ltd, Fielmann Group AG, Bloom, United Optics GmbH, Vienna Akustik, MicroTech, Neuroth, GN Hearing Austria GmbH
b. Growing public awareness and de-stigmatization of hearing aid usage are driving market growth. Furthermore, rapidly aging population and favorable healthcare policies are supplementing market growth.
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