P&G brand chief to major digital players: Prove marketing investment leads to sales March 27, 2018: 12:00 AM EST Procter & Gamble’s chief brand officer Marc Pritchard called on big digital players to prove that marketing investment results in sales and not just excess frequency. He revealed that P&G cut $200m from its digital ad budget last year after new data showed that average view time for an ad on a mobile newsfeed was just 1.7 seconds. The multinational consumer goods giant also reduced spend on “long tail” marketing after re-evaluating its approach to programmatic. Citing the opportunity for full integration of media, shopping and data, Pritchard noted that P&G maintained its overall media investment with e-commerce players such as Amazon as well as Alibaba, Tencent and JD in China, where the company’s focus is increasing. P&G also plans to change the way it works with agency partners in order to align with the company’s new direction of more brand entrepreneurship and less project management. [Image Credit: © Procter & Gamble] Sarah Vizard , "P&G’s Marc Pritchard on the next frontier of digital: We want to know our investment results in a sale", Marketing Week, March 27, 2018, © Centaur Communications Ltd (a member of the Centaur Media plc group)

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Unilever Saves 30% With Its In-House Creative Content Production Agency March 8, 2018: 12:00 AM EST Unilever, the world's second largest advertiser is reducing the number of its advertising agencies from 3,000 to 1,500, by handling content production with U-Studios, its in-house creative agency. The 17 U-Studios in 12 countries now creates content for some of its brands. Savings are reinvested in marketing and in-store spend. And with online sales increasing by 80% last year, Unilever is also investing heavily in digital, leveraging its in-house People Data Centers for real-time analytics of consumer relationships. Gideon Spanier, "Unilever claims 30% saving from handling content production in-house", Campaign Live, March 08, 2018, © Haymarket Media Group Ltd.

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Hain Celestial Debuts 75+ New Products At Trade Show March 8, 2018: 12:00 AM EST Hain Celestial Group said it is unveiling more than 75 new products at Natural Products Expo West, natural, organic and healthy products industry trade show. Among the new products to be featured are Arrowhead Mills Protein Flour and Protein Pancake and Waffle Mix; Bearitos snacks brand’s non-GMO Baked Veggie and Cheddar Baked Corn Puffs; Celestial Seasonings’ Vermont Maple Ginger Herbal Tea and Lemon Lavender Lane Herbal Tea; and Earth's Best Organic brand’s Gentle Infant Formula and Non-GMO Plant-Based Infant Formula. [Image Credit: © Hain Celestial] "Hain Celestial Features 75 Exciting New Products at Expo West 2018", News release, Hain Celestial, March 08, 2018, © The Hain Celestial Group, Inc.

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L'Oréal Group Closes Robust 2017, Posting Strong Sales, Profit, Solid Growth March 8, 2018: 12:00 AM EST The L'Oréal Group closed out fiscal 2017 reporting strong sales for the year, totaling €26.02 billion ($32.3 billion), up 4.8 percent from 2016 based on a comparable scope of consolidation and constant exchange rates. Factors affecting revenue included consolidation (-2.8 percent); acquisitions (+0.9 percent); sale of The Body Shop (-3.7 percent); and currency fluctuations (-1.3 percent). Growth at constant exchange rates was 2.0 percent. Growth in the Active Cosmetics Division, which includes the CeraVe products, was 5.8 percent like-for-like (11.9 percent reported). Division sales surpassed €2 billion ($2.5 billion). The division continues to grow internationally, “thanks to the successful integration of CeraVe, which is growing strongly in the American market” at a rate of 20 percent annually. The company still posted growth of 1.7 percent like-for-like (3.5 percent reported). “The American market is continuing to grow, but is facing a slowdown,” the company said.   The profitability of Active Cosmetics slid 60 basis points at 22.6 percent but continues to be the most profitable division. The company noted that it invested significantly “to support skincare brand Vichy, to accelerate La Roche-Posay, and to prepare for the rollout of CeraVe.” The company saw acceleration in the overall skincare market, thanks to Baby Boomers and to Millennials, and to Asian consumers. Division President Brigitte Liberman said two major elements are driving the division’s success: first, a “powerful and sustainable trend for skincare you can trust,” and second, the acquisition of CeraVe, which has “transformed the worldwide footprint of the division and complemented our brand portfolio.”  [Image Credit: ©  L'Oréal] "L'Oreal 2017 Annual Results", Earnings release, L'Oréal, March 08, 2018, © L'Oréal

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Avon To Exit Australia And New Zealand To Focus On Other Markets March 7, 2018: 12:00 AM EST Avon plans to leave Australia and New Zealand by the end of 2018. The company reported a 3% decline in revenue in Asia-Pacific for fiscal year 2017 compared to a 2% fall overall. The company said it will focus on areas where there is “greater potential for future growth.”  The news will impact 220 staff and 21,400 representatives in the region. "Avon to Exit Australia and NZ", Global Cosmetic Industry, March 07, 2018, © Allured Business Media

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Arrival Of CeraVe In U.K. Will Give French Competitors A Run For Their Money February 27, 2018: 12:00 AM EST British beauty writer Dominique Temple welcomed the arrival of L'Oréal’s CeraVe line of ceramide-based skincare products to the U.K., noting that they offer high-quality, affordable alternatives to French products – including Avene and Bioderma – with their “stalwart formulas and chic packaging.” She bestowed her stamp of approval on the popular American pharmacy brand: “CeraVe really is an affordable, accessible, cosmetically elegant range for all skin types.” Other affordable American products in the same category she recommended include Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Yogurt Vanilla Body Wash, and RoC, Max Resurfacing Facial Cleanser. [Image Credit: © Bioderma]   Dominique Temple, "The Affordable American Beauty Brand Set to Rival French Pharmacy Favourites", The Telegraph, February 27, 2018, © Telegraph Media Group Limited

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Hain Celestial’s 2nd Quarter Sales, Profits Increase, But Miss Forecasts February 7, 2018: 12:00 AM EST Natural and organic food marketer Hain Celestial (Lake Success, N.Y.) posted second quarter profit of $47.1 million on sales of $775.2 million, a five percent increase over the same period last year. Second quarter profit was up 73 percent over the prior year period. But the results missed Wall Street estimates, sending shares on a downward slide, dropping 6.3 percent in morning trading. Nevertheless, CEO Irwin D. Simon said he was pleased with the financial performance and noted that the company continues to look for ways to simplify its brand portfolio and “reduce complexities.” Though net sales for Hain Pure Protein increased four percent to $159 million over the prior year period, the company said it is exploring the divestiture of the business. [Image Credit: © Hain Celestial ] "Hain Celestial Reports Second Quarter Fiscal Year 2018 Financial Results", Earnings release, Hain Celestial, February 07, 2018, © Hain Celestial

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CeraVe Products Now Available In The U.K. February 7, 2018: 12:00 AM EST L'Oréal’s CeraVe skincare brand arrived in the U.K. on March 5. Seven products are being sold at Boots pharmacies and online. British beauty writer Caroline Hirons called the CeraVe product line “the kinder, gentler alternative to the harshness of Cetaphil” and worth investigating if you “can’t afford to spend too much on skincare” or just don’t want to. The company announced it has hired Blanket Consulting to work with Sarah Ashwick at L’Oréal for the U.K. launch  Blanket will work on the brand’s press and influencer relations. [Image Credit: © CeraVe] "CeraVe Launches in the UK", CarolineHirons.com, February 07, 2018, © Caroline Hirons

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Henkel Expands Its R&D Capabilities In Connecticut January 30, 2018: 12:00 AM EST Home care and beauty products giant Henkel has opened two R&D facilities in Connecticut. The new 24,000-square-foot Stamford plant employs 40 people who will focus on formulation research in beauty care products, including Dial, Right Guard, Tone, Schwarzkopf and got2b. The facility also houses Research@Elm, a clinical testing lab. The expanded 27,000-square-foot Trumbull center houses formulation laboratories, a consumer product and fragrance evaluation center, packaging design, and two pilot plants supporting the beauty care and laundry & home care divisions. [  Image credit:  ©  Henkel   ] "Henkel Opens State-of-the-Art Research and Development Facilities in Stamford and Trumbull, Conn.", News release, Henkel, January 30, 2018, © Henkel

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India's Male Grooming Market Posts Strong Growth, Nielsen Says January 19, 2018: 12:00 AM EST India's men's grooming market has grown to more than Rs5,000 crore, driven by men who want to look better at work, according to a December 2017 report from Nielsen. Data from the market research firm revealed India's urban men are spending more on beauty products, due to their growing disposable income, being up-to-date with grooming trends, and concerns about their physical appearances. Also, sales of face-cleansing products for men grew 60 times from 2009 to 2016, Nielsen said. Suneera Tandon, "Indian Men are Splurging on their Looks—But Not to Impress Women", Quartz, January 19, 2018, © Quartz

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Target Launches Good Chemistry Brand Of Fragrances January 18, 2018: 12:00 AM EST Target said it plans to launch Good Chemistry, the retailer's first exclusive fragrance brand. According to the company, the brand includes four collections it says are inspired by different personalities: Confident and Charming, Good and Grounded, Vibrant and Playful, and Cool and Collected. Featuring paraben-free scents, the vegan fragrances are made with essential oils and will be available at all Target branches from January 21, 2018. "Say Hello to Good Chemistry, Target’s First Exclusive Fragrance Brand", Target, January 18, 2018, © Target Brands, Inc.

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Kimberly-Clark De Mexico Reports Strong Revenue Growth In 2017 January 18, 2018: 12:00 AM EST Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A.B. De C.V. reported sales grew to Ps. $9.4 billion, with EBITDA of Ps. $2.2 billion, in the fourth quarter of 2017. Sales grew 5.9 percent to Ps. $37.8 billion for the full year, compared with the previous year. According to the company, EBITDA for the year reached Ps. $8.6 billion with a 22.7 percent margin. "Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A.B. de C.V. Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2017 Results ", Kimberly-Clark de México, January 18, 2018, © Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.

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Lidl Launches Line Of Skincare Products In UK January 18, 2018: 12:00 AM EST Discount retailer Lidl has launched the Cien Cellular Beauty line of skincare products in the UK. With an affordable price of ₤15, the products contain ingredients similar to those used in the La Prairie Cellular Radiance Cream, which cost almost ₤500. With every product costing ₤3.49, the range includes a day cream, night cream, and serum. Anna Johnstone, "Lidl are launching a £3.49 cellular beauty cream – and it costs £490 less than La Prairie’s version", The Sun, January 18, 2018, © News Group Newspapers Limited

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Bioengineering Success May Give L’Oréal A Competitive Advantage In China January 16, 2018: 12:00 AM EST L’Oréal China Co. has succeeded in reconstructing Chinese skin cells in a Shanghai lab from living tissue donors. The cells will be used by R&D teams to test makeup and skincare products, such as anti-aging serums, whitening creams, and pollution-fighting cleansers, for Chinese consumers – “the most demanding in the world in almost all our product categories,” a company representative said. L’Oréal is the top-selling beauty brand in China, but consumers have begun to turn to local brands for products formulated for their skin type. An industry analyst said the company has recognized the trend and has ”moved to adapt to the different genes to capture the huge potential of the Chinese market.” [Image Credit: © Cosmetics China Agency] Louise Prance Miles, "L’Oréal Replicates Chinese Skin in Shanghai-Lab to Better Cater to Regional Consumer", Global Cosmetic News, January 16, 2018, © Global Cosmetic Media Limited

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Avon Uses CDP's Smart Packaging Tech To Determine How Consumers Use New Anti-Aging Product January 16, 2018: 12:00 AM EST Beauty brand Avon worked with technology consulting firm Cambridge Design Partnership for the launch of the ANEW Reversalist Infinite Effects Night Treatment Cream skincare product. Using smart packaging technology, the companies hope to determine how participants in the product test are really using the skincare product. Avon said in order to make the most of the product's anti-aging effects, consumers should rotate its Phyto+ and SuperRetinol complexes every seven days. Tony Quested, "Avon calls on CDP in trial of new anti-ageing product", Business Weekly, January 16, 2018, © Business Weekly

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Ceramide Skincare Market Has A New Player January 10, 2018: 12:00 AM EST Personal care company ESN Group has entered the ceramide skincare market with its Ceramedx line of formulations, including a cleanser, moisturizing cream, and body lotion. The products feature a “plant-based ceramide technology” known as Riceramide-3 Complex. They are fragrance-free and made without parabens or petrolatum. Ceramide-based skincare products entered the market with the launch of Nestlé subsidiary Galderma’s Cetaphil product line, which now includes formulations for men. Another major competitor for California-based ESN Group is L’Oréal, which paid more than a billion dollars to acquire the Valeant skincare brands, which include CeraVe. In the Ceramedx press release, a dermatologist noted that the new product line offers “a more natural alternative for patients of mine with dry skin who need a therapeutic product.” [Image Credit: © Ceramedx] Deanna Utroske, "A New Competitor Enters the Ceramide Skin Care Space", CosmeticsDesign.com | USA, January 10, 2018, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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Oral Care Is Concept Behind New Natural Tea Drinks From DoseBiome January 9, 2018: 12:00 AM EST Canadian start-up DoseBiome has launched natural oral-care tea drinks that “restore the mouth in between brushing,” according to founder Ted Jin. Qii (pronounced chee) is based on oral microbiome research whose goal is to develop products that give people healthier smiles. It is formulated with a xylitol-based ingredient that reduces harmful bacteria in the mouth, such as S. mutans and P. gingivalis, by up to 80 percent. Qīī is available in Lemongrass Ginger Green Tea and Classic Oolong Tea flavors. "Qii Redefines the Oral Health Industry With Launch of Proprietary Tea Drinks", News release, DoseBiome, January 09, 2018, © DoseBiome

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Survey: Americans Are Neglecting To Moisturize Their Skin In Winter January 8, 2018: 12:00 AM EST An online survey conducted by Harris Poll has found that 65 percent of participants believe the winds, low temperatures, hot showers, and warm houses of January contribute to dry skin. The poll, sponsored by skincare company CeraVe, found that 42 percent believe dry skin in the winter is one of the things they dislike most – more than going to the DMV, filing taxes, and shoveling snow – and wish there were a “quick fix” for the problem. Many of those polled (25 percent) said they are neglecting a skincare routine that could bring them the fix they're seeking. Fifteen percent admitted they never moisturize their skin at all. CeraVe announced the poll results in conjunction with its declaration that January 8 is Winter Skin Relief Day, a good time to start moisturizing with products like CeraVe Healing Ointment. [Image Credit: © CeraVe] "Many Americans Would Trade Social Media for Healthy Skin", News release, CeraVe, January 08, 2018, © CeraVe

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Sephora India Plans To Open More Stores In The Country January 8, 2018: 12:00 AM EST Sephora India plans to expand its store network in the country by opening 10-12 stores in the coming 15 months. At present, the beauty retailer, a joint venture between Sephora and Arvind Ltd., operates 13 company-owned retail branches in the country's metropolitan centers. India's beauty and grooming market, valued at $8 billion, is expanding at a compounded annual growth rate of 18 percent, with the premium segment growing at a faster rate of about 28 percent. Shobha Roy, "French cosmetics retailer Sephora to deck up India in premium products", The Hindu Business Line, January 08, 2018, © The Hindu Business Line

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L'Oréal Debuts Wearable UV-Sensing Technology At Electronics Show January 7, 2018: 12:00 AM EST L'Oréal recently showcased two technology products from the La Roche-Posay brand designed to advance skin safety in the sun. Introduced at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in February, UV Sense is a battery-free wearable -- on the thumbnail -- electronic UV sensor that provides crucial information about individual ultraviolet (UV) exposure levels. A limited-edition variant of My UV Patch was also on display. Both technologies, designed by Yves Béhar’s fuseproject design studio, will be available from the La Roche-Posay brand this year. The company launched My UV Patch, a stretchable skin sensor to monitor UV exposure, in 2016. [Image Credit: ©  L'Oréal] "L'Oréal Advances Its Commitment to Promoting Sun Safety with La Roche-Posay UV Sense, the First Battery-Free Wearable Electronic UV Sensor", News release, L'Oréal, January 07, 2018, © L'Oréal

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Peltz As Procter & Gamble Director Signals Cheaper Consumer Goods In 2018 January 3, 2018: 12:00 AM EST Activist investor Nelson Peltz's appointment to Procter & Gamble's board of directors could signal lower prices for the company's personal care and household care products, according to analysts. Peltz's investment company, Trian Management Group, has claimed that P&G's biggest challenge is “declining market share.” According to the investment firm, high markups are the main reason why the company is losing market share. Nathaniel Meyersohn , "Are cheaper Pampers and Tide coming in 2018?", CNN Money , January 03, 2018, © Cable News Network

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Shiseido Moves American HQ To Upgraded Manhattan Office Tower December 12, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Japanese beauty brand Shiseido Co. plans to relocate its US headquarters to New York City's 390 Madison Ave. As part of the 15-year lease signed by the company, Shiseido Americas Corp. will take the 15th through 22nd floors of the totally renovated office building in midtown Manhattan. According to an unnamed source, the company has agreed to pay about $100 per square foot for the 225,800 square feet in the tower. David M Levitt, "Japan's Shiseido Is Moving U.S. Headquarters to Renovated NYC Tower", Bloomberg, December 12, 2017, © Bloomberg L.P.

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Procter & Gamble Receives CSR Honors From Forbes, JUST Capital December 12, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Procter & Gamble was honored as one of the country's Most JUST Companies by the Forbes magazine and the nonprofit JUST Capital. Results of a survey of more than 72,000 respondents helped JUST Capital define just corporate behaviors, as well as find out the issues that Americans consider as most important, including drivers and components of corporate justness. For its part, P&G has released its “2017 Citizenship Report,” which highlights the company's performance in terms of ethics and corporate responsibility, community impact, gender equality, diversity and inclusion, and environmental sustainability. "P&G Named One of America’s Best Corporate Citizens", Procter & Gamble, December 12, 2017, © Procter & Gamble

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New Tests For Skin Allergy, Eye Irritation Offer Alternatives To Animal Testing November 28, 2017: 12:00 AM EST L’Oréal has developed two ways to test compounds for skin allergy and eye irritation that can be used instead of animal testing. The two new alternatives have been adopted by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). U-SENS predicts the sensitizing potential of formulations, while HCE EIT can detect the eye irritation potential of chemicals. The U-SENS method for detecting and predicting a skin allergy is based on tests performed in vitro on human cells that express a specific marker of immunity. HCE EIT is based on a human cornea epithelium model reconstructed in vitro that faithfully reproduces human histological and morphological properties.  [Image Credit: © Univ. of Cincinnati ] Lucy Whitehouse, "L’Oreal Develops Two New Animal Testing Alternatives", CosmeticsDesign-Europe.com, November 28, 2017, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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Kao Completes New Manufacturing Building In Taiwan November 24, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Kao (Taiwan) Corporation said it has completed the construction of a new manufacturing building for beauty care products in the company's factory in Taiwan's Hsinchu County. With an initial investment of 3.3 billion yen, the new building will expand the company's supply capacity and address the growing beauty care business of the Japanese beauty brand's Taiwanese subsidiary. According to the company, the new facility will start manufacturing the Biore and Men's Biore skincare products and the Essential and Liese haircare products. Kao has implemented the Good Manufacturing Practice standards to ensure safety and quality during the whole production process. "Kao completes construction of new production building for beauty care products in Taiwan plant", Kao, November 24, 2017, © Kao Corporation

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Old Spice Launches Video Ad With Exploding Log And Terry Crews November 23, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Men's grooming brand Old Spice launched “Ye Olde Exploding Yule Log,” an advertising video featuring actor Terry Crews. Created by advertising agency Wieden + Kennedy, the video shows Crews and a yule log periodically exploding. Tim Nudd, "Old Spice and Terry Crews Bring You ‘Ye Olde Exploding Yule Log’ for the Holidays", Adweek, November 23, 2017, © Adweek

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Unilever Starts Process Of Looking For New CEO November 23, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Unilever is working with executive search consulting firm Egon Zehnder International to search for current CEO Paul Polman's successor. Although the company has yet to officially announce a possible date for Polman's retirement, some unnamed sources expect the veteran executive to leave in about 18 months. According to Sky News, Egon Zehnder is helping Unilever's board of directors prepare for a formal search process. Mark Kleinman, "Dove-maker Unilever paves way for exit of veteran CEO Polman", Sky UK, November 23, 2017, © Sky UK

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Henkel Names Fortunato General Manager Of Schwarzkopf Professional North America November 9, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Henkel said it has appointed John Fortunato general manager of the company's Schwarzkopf Professional North America business and Alterna Haircare. Fortunato will continue reporting directly to Henkel Beauty Care Hair Professional's regional head in North America. Also, Kathleen Cannon was promoted to head of sales for Schwarzkopf Professional US and Alterna Sales & Education. "Henkel Appoints Fortunato as General Manager", Happi, November 09, 2017, © Rodman Media

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Shiseido Posts Net Loss For First 9 Months Of Fiscal Year 2017 November 9, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Japanese beauty brand Shiseido reported a net loss of almost 17 billion yen in the nine-month period ending September 30, 2017. According to the company, the loss was primarily due to the 70.7 billion yen costs related to Bare Escentuals. Despite this, the company's operating income for the period grew 82.4 percent to 70.65 billion yen, while net sales expanded by 17.4 percent to 731.2 billion yen. "Consolidated Settlement of Accounts for the First Nine Months of the Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2017", Shiseido, November 09, 2017, © Shiseido Company, Limited

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Shiseido Acquires AI Technology Company November 7, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Shiseido Americas Corporation has acquired Giaran, Inc., a technology company that specializes in artificial intelligence (AI) platforms. Founded in 2016, the company applies computer vision, big data, and augmented reality, and creates novel algorithms of deep learning, data mining, and predictive modeling. The technology will be used at Shiseido for “individualized beauty customization” in areas like makeup virtual try on, tutorials, color matching, personalized recommendations, makeup removal, face tracking, and skin tone detection. Giaran will remain based in Boston, Mass., and become part of Shiseido’s Makeup Center of Excellence. Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. "Shiseido Americas Acquires Giaran, Inc. ", News release, Shiseido, November 07, 2017, © Shiseido Company, Ltd.

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Hain Celestial‘s 1st Quarter Delivered “Solid” Gains In Sales, Profit November 7, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Organic and natural products company Hain Celestial posted a healthy first quarter 2018 net sales increase of four percent to $708.3 million. Gross margin rose 250 basis points to 18.6 percent, and operating income soared 129 percent to $31.5 million. Diluted earnings per share was $0.19, while adjusted diluted EPS was $0.23. CEO Irwin D. Simon called the results "solid with improved net sales growth and profitability” and met expectations across all business segments. [Image Credit: © Hain Celestial] "Hain Celestial Reports First Quarter Fiscal Year 2018 Financial Results", News release, Hain Celestial, November 07, 2017, © Hain Celestial

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L’Oréal Sees “Big Potential” In International Deployment Of CeraVe November 2, 2017: 12:00 AM EST L’Oréal’s nine-month financial performance was solid, with a 2.4 percent increase in sales to $22.6 billion. Changes related to company consolidation led to a net 2.2 percent drop in sales. These included the acquisition of ECosmetics (September 2016) and CeraVe (March 207), and the sale of the Body Shop. Like-for-like sales were up 4.5 percent, and currencies had a -3.5 percent impact. Active Cosmetics sales grew at better than five percent. CEO Jean-Paul Agon said the Active Cosmetics business would prosper because of strong demand for skincare products recommended by dermatologists. He also said the company next year would begin international deployment of CeraVe, “which I think has a very big potential." Company execs said they were confident sales and profit of the company overall would again outperform the cosmetics market in 2017. [Image Credit: ©   L’Oréal ] "Q3 2017 L'Oreal SA Corporate Sales Call - Final", FD (Fair Disclosure) Wire / Nexis , November 02, 2017, © FD Wire Nexis

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Stagnant Indonesia Economy Could Drive Unilever To Tinker With Product Portfolio November 2, 2017: 12:00 AM EST A PT Unilever Indonesia executive said a stagnant business environment tends to increase the cost of living and push middle-class consumers toward smaller, cheaper products. More affluent consumers, however, continue to buy premium-priced goods. Consumer research in Indonesia shows that the composition of high-income, middle-income, and low-income consumers is now 10 percent-40 percent-50 percent, respectively. The middle-income segment could decline, however, if the stagnant environment persisted. Anticipating that, Unilever would “need to change our portfolio."  [Image Credit: © Unilever Indonesia  ] Anton Hermansyah, "Middle consumer segment shifts to lower-value goods", The Jakarta Post, November 02, 2017, © PT. Niskala Media Tenggara

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Australian-Made Beauty, Personal Care Products Attract Chinese Consumers October 30, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Chinese consumer demand for Australian-made beauty and personal care products is strong, thanks to the country’s clean and green reputations, strict regulations, and quarantine control. Demand for Australian products will remain strong, according to Euromonitor, because they are more trusted and perceived as higher quality, with consumers willing to pay a premium. Australian companies can expect increasing sales, including via direct-to-consumer channels like Chinese e-commerce sites Tmall and JD.com. Australian companies and retailers have opened their own sites through these channels as well.  [Image Credit: © A'kin Australia  ] Tim Foulds, "Beauty and Personal Care in Australia Sees Strong Demand from Chinese Consumers", Blog entry, Euromonitor, October 30, 2017, © Euromonitor

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Reckitt Benckiser Plans To Break Up Business Into Two Divisions October 18, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Reckitt Benckiser announced plans to restructure its business into two distinct operations, a health division and another covering hygiene and home products. RB's decision to reorganize came following its acquisition of US-based baby formula manufacturer Mead Johnson in June 2017. Also, the company, which has been seeing a tough year, reported its worst quarter ever in July 2017. Martinne Geller, "Reckitt Benckiser to Form Two Business Units for Better Focus", Reuters, October 18, 2017, © Thomson Reuters

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L'Oreal Names Dumas EVP Of Communication And Public Affairs October 17, 2017: 12:00 AM EST L'Oreal has announced the appointment of Lucia Dumas as executive vice president of the company's Communication and Public Affairs department. Also, Dumas will become part of the company's Executive Committee in January 2018. Dumas will succeed Isabel Marey-Semper who is leaving following eight years in the Group. "Appointment to L’Oreal Group Executive Committee", L'Oréal , October 17, 2017, © L'Oréal

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Herbal Essences Launches Film Highlighting Women Ready For Change October 17, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Haircare brand Herbal Essences has launched a marketing campaign featuring the short film, “Changes.” According to the company, the campaign aims to encourage women to accept life changes as a means of living “more fully.” Through the film, four women share their backgrounds, their reasons for deciding to change, and how their choice made their life more exciting. "Herbal Essences: Changes by Forsman & Bodenfors", The Drum, October 17, 2017, © Carnyx Group Ltd

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The Body Shop Launches Asian-Themed Skincare Products In New Zealand October 16, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Beauty retailer The Body Shop has introduced the Japanese Matcha Tea Pollution Clearing Mask skincare product in New Zealand. According to the company, the product features the antioxidant properties of Japan's matcha green tea and dandelion extracts from France. Also, the retailer announced the Chinese Ginseng & Rice cleanser and toner, the Clarifying Polishing Powder Wash, and the Clarifying Milky Toner. Portia Gascoigne, "Face the good stuff with the Body Shop’s new Asian fusion range", Lucire, October 16, 2017, © JY&A Media, a division of Jack Yan & Associates

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FMCG Start-Ups In India Rely On Innovation, Pluck October 13, 2017: 12:00 AM EST The biggest hurdles for India’s start-up FMCG companies as they battle industry giants for market share are capital, retail shelf space, distribution, and marketing. They sometimes make strides through pure luck, but innovation and persistence are the most reliable vehicles to success. In its early days RAW Pressery, for example, an online marketer of cold-pressed juices, adapted Mumbai’s dabbawala hot-lunch delivery system based on bicycles and rail transport to deliver its juice products. Dabbawalas were able to deliver 50,000 purchases in three hours. Four years later, the company’s fleet of 25 refrigerated vehicles delivers its own juices as well as products for other brands. The end result is that RAW Pressery and other aggressive start-ups are able to peel off market share from bigwigs like Unilever, Nestlé, and others. Supraja Srinivasan, "Battleground FMCG: How Consumer Product Startups are Battling Roadblocks to Stand Out Amid Giants", The Economic Times, October 13, 2017, © Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd.

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Shareholders Elect All Of Procter & Gamble's Directors To Board October 10, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Procter & Gamble said its shareholders have elected all of the company's 11 directors to the P&G board of directors. Activist investor Nelson Peltz of Trian was not elected to the board, the company said. "P&G Shareholders Elect All Eleven P&G Directors at 2017 Annual Meeting", Procter & Gamble, October 10, 2017, © Procter & Gamble

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Dollar Shave Club Plans 2018 Europe Expansion October 9, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Unilever's Dollar Shave Club unit plans to expand into Europe in 2018, according to the subscription-razor-blade company's founder and CEO Michael Dubin. Acquired by Unilever in 2016 for $1 billion, Dollar Shave Club has grown to grab 20 percent of the razor market by volume and 10 percent in dollar share. In addition to geographic expansion, Dollar Shave Club has also increased its product categories. Caroline Baldwin, "Dollar Shave Club to enter Europe in 2018", Essential Retail, October 09, 2017, © Reed Exhibitions Limited

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LVMH Posts Strong Revenue Growth In First 9 Months Of 2017 October 9, 2017: 12:00 AM EST LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton reported revenue grew 14 percent to €30.1 billion during the first nine months of 2017, compared with the same period in 2016. Organic revenue jumped 12 percent from previous year's figures, the company said. Also, all of the company's business groups, except Wines and Spirits, posted double-digit organic growth. "LVMH: 12% organic revenue growth in the first nine months of 2017", LVMH, October 09, 2017, © LVMH

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Seeing Inefficiency, P&G Seeks Revamp Of Digital Ad Strategy October 8, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Procter & Gamble’s chief brand officer, Marc Pritchard, is revamping the company’s digital marketing processes to avoid wasted ad spend and to grow revenue, which is stuck in the low single-digits. Pritchard argues that despite spending $600 billion annually, P&G is “reaching too few people too many times with too many ads.” The company is now working with social media networks to create shorter, less frequent, yet more engaging digital ads, and also to ensure that its ads are not shown alongside irrelevant or offensive content.  Kristina Monllos, "P&G’s Marketing Chief Argues Against Waste in the Digital Space and Addresses Growth for Brands", Adweek, October 08, 2017, © Adweek

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Amorepacific Receives US Patent For Skin Whitening Compound October 6, 2017: 12:00 AM EST South Korean beauty brand Amorepacific Corporation has received a US patent for a method for whitening skin and enhancing skin elasticity. Patent details revealed that a collagen peptide, Oldenlandia diffusa, and a white ginseng polysaccharide are the formulation's active ingredients. Also, the liquid crystal oil-in-water emulsion base includes sorbitan stearate, sorbitan laurate, and behenyl alcohol. "Amorepacific Patents Skin Resilience and Whitening Composition", Happi, October 06, 2017, © Rodman Media

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Shiseido Launches Skincare And Body-Care Brand For Millennials October 6, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Shiseido is launching the Recipist, a brand of skincare and body-care products aimed at millennials in Japan. According to the Japanese beauty brand, the products will be sold exclusively online starting on November 1, 2017. Designed to restore the skin's balance, the products are formulated with natural ingredients, the company said. Kelly Wetherille , "Shiseido Targets Millennials in Japan With Recipist Brand", Women’s Wear Daily, October 06, 2017, © Penske Media Corporation

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Global Men’s Grooming Market At US$47 Billion With LATAM Growing Fastest October 5, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Euromonitor estimates the 2016 global men’s grooming market at US$ 47 billion, about 11% of the total global beauty and personal care market. Latin America accounts for 21% of the total (US$10 billion) with a 5-year CAGR of 12% and is the region with the highest projected growth. Brazil, Mexico and Argentina have 76% of the region’s market but cultural variations make the markets very different. In Brazil men’s fragrances have 60% share, driven by a strong gifting culture, while in Mexico men’s skin care is the is the main category with just 5% of total sales. Elton Morimitsu, "Latin America will Drive Men’s Grooming Global Growth", Euromonitor, October 05, 2017, © Euromonitor

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Upcoming GDPR Legislation Set To Have Global Impact October 5, 2017: 12:00 AM EST New General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) are due to arrive in May 2018. GDPR will create a standardized data privacy law for EU members. It will also affect companies and individuals selling goods or services to EU citizens. The legislation will give individuals more rights to their data, including the “right to be forgotten” and asking consent for data processing. Potential fines for not adhering to the regulations can be up to $24m, or 4% of a company’s annual turnover. A recent PwC survey revealed that GDPR is a top data priority for more than 50 percent of US multinationals.[Image Credit: ©  EDPS]  Ronan Shields et al., "What Does the EU’s Privacy Reform Mean for US Marketers? And what Should You Do Now?", The Drum, October 05, 2017, © Carnyx Group Ltd

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Walgreens Boots Alliance Launches YourGoodSkin Line Of Skincare Products October 4, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Walgreens Boots Alliance has launched the YourGoodSkin line of skincare products exclusively at Walgreens stores in the US and Boots branches in the UK and Ireland. Developed in partnership with scientists, dermatologists, and thousands of women, YourGoodSkin products are designed to “help transform skin” and give consumers “good skin for life.” Featuring the Balancing Skin Concentrate ingredient, YourGoodSkin products can give 90 percent of women skin with improved texture; 71 percent, more even skin tone; and 80 percent, more radiant skin, according to test results. "Walgreens Boots Alliance Launches YourGoodSkin™, First Skincare Range in over 20 Years Which Includes Hero Product ‘Balancing Skin Concentrate,’ Clinically Proven to Improve the Five Key Signs of Visibly Healthy Skin", Business Wire, October 04, 2017, © Business Wire, Inc.

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Rexona Signs Marketing Deal With Chelsea Football Club In Nigeria October 3, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Unilever's Rexona brand of deodorants signed a marketing deal with the Chelsea Football Club in Nigeria. An expansion of Chelsea's partnership with Shield in South Africa, the deal aims to “celebrate and inspire” people who are making moves in Africa. Also, the deal seeks to provide aspiring football players across the continent with the chance to achieve their goals on and off the field. "Rexona Announces Partnership with Chelsea FC", THISDAY, October 03, 2017, © THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LTD.

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L'Oreal Agrees To Advertise On Piccadilly Lights Outdoor Ad Platform October 2, 2017: 12:00 AM EST Beauty brand L'Oreal has agreed to advertise on the Piccadilly Lights outdoor advertising platform. Scheduled for relaunch in October 2017, the outdoor advertising site has been turned off in January 2017 for renovation and upgrade, including the installation of a 4K LED digital screen and live technology center. Omar Oakes, "L'Oreal signs on to advertise at new Piccadilly Lights", Campaign Live, October 02, 2017, © Haymarket Media Group Ltd.

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