The New Beauty Buzzword

Fragrance statistics on beauty buying and the recession, from Mintel Beauty Innovation, show that14% of French women now use the same fragrance all the time instead of using different ones for different occasions (compared to 4% in the UK and 8% in the U.S.). Across all three countries, an average of 15% of women reported wearing fragrances less often than in the past.

No doubt about it—the shift in the economy over the past year has brought with it a change in consumers’ buying habits. Not only have they cut back on discretionary purchases, they have redefined the circumstances under which they buy. Key now to sales is generating desire, a feeling on the consumers’ part that they must have it. The must-have buzzword now pops up everywhere, aiming to drive home in the prospective customer’s mind the impulse that there’s no choice—they can’t possibly live without it.

In the fragrance industry, which has suffered this year in particular, innovative packaging provides this critical must-have impetus that can bring a renewed vibrancy to the market. In “Fragrance Packaging that Wows,” you’ll hear from industry insiders such as Rochelle Bloom, president of The Fragrance Foundation; Marc Rosen, internationally known packaging designer; Nica Lewis, head consultant, Mintel Beauty Innovation—and a member of Beauty Packaging’s Board of Advisors; Chad Lavigne, principal of Chad Lavigne, LLC, a branding and design studio in Manhattan; and others, on the current weaknesses in the industry and the vital role of packaging in turning things around. A selection of fall’s must-have fragrance packages illustrates that brands are now, more than ever, taking the influence of packaging to heart, and how coveted flacons are expected to impact the all-important 2009 holiday season.

Of course there’s also been increased emphasis on packaging in other areas of the beauty industry, particularly in color cosmetics. Contributing editor Leah Genuario spotlights the evolving trends in this segment, including a rise in “going green.” Tubes, too, with their many benefits, continue to evolve their role as a popular packaging choice, and you’ll read how new benefits such as decorating capabilities and advanced applicators are increasing tubes’ popularity across multiple beauty categories. Also, as always, please be sure to check nitesh_bp.rodpub.com for online exclusives, industry news and more.

As this issue goes to press, we’re eagerly anticipating two of the most exciting shows in our industry—HBA Global Expo and Luxe Pack Monaco—and are looking forward to the innovative packaging ideas that will be on display, ready to wow consumers in coming seasons. Jay Gorga, publisher of Beauty Packaging, and I look forward to meeting you in the aisles and sharing your perceptions of the industry. After all, your feedback is a must have as we continue to best serve you.

We hope you enjoy this issue,


Jamie Matusow
[email protected]