Behind each product on a cosmetics shelf is a team of specialists that encompasses scientists, ingredient makers and manufacturers, packagers and shippers, retail stores and beauty specialists.
Value is created at each stage of the supply chain, fuelling growth and wealth creation for participants, big and small. The businesses in the cosmetics and personal care sector range from salons and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to multinational corporations. Some 8,540 companies in the European beauty and personal care sector are SMEs, typically based in local areas, creating vital employment in local regions6.
The beauty and personal care industry is a cornerstone of European excellence and is recognised as a world leader both as a flagship market and a major exporter of cosmetics around the world. It is a driver of innovation and a champion of regional artisanal production throughout the value chain.
Innovation is the heartbeat of the European beauty and personal care industry. New product development is continuous, fuelled by consumer preferences, ever-changing beauty trends and sustainability. Every year, a quarter of cosmetic products on the market are improved or are completely new13.
The sector has a long and strong sustainability track record from raw material souring to product development, production, transport, and consumption.
The beauty and personal care sector consistently leads global environmental transparency benchmarks, with industry leaders regularly achieving CDP’s prestigious ‘Triple A’ rating across climate change, forests, and water security. This independent recognition highlights the value of embedded innovation and sustainability throughout our entire value chain.
