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Market Research Briefs - Consumer Goods

Best prospect 2008 Cosmetics (U.S. Commercial Service)

In 2006, sales of cosmetics in France (including perfumes, toiletries and hair care products) reached USD 8,178 billions, representing a significant increase of 3.5 percent.  Due to the know-how of local companies, the label “made in France” remains a sign of quality and consequently, total French exports have registered a considerable increase of 7.4 percent.  French brands are sold in 202 countries.

Consumers are becoming very demanding and are always expecting more and more efficient products. They like to try new and innovative products. This is why companies need to adapt themselves to the want and needs of these consumers by launching new products every year.

Although this is a very difficult and competitive market due to the dominance of French leading companies, (particularly L’Oreal and L.V.M.H.) and because of a very severe legislation, there are market opportunities particularly for U.S. niche brands.  There are a few French distributors interested in sourcing innovative products from the U.S.


Best Products/Services

According to market specialists, the following sectors are in a high demand in France:

The spa industry is still remaining one of the most dynamic markets with a significant increase over the past few years.  The spa is a concept dedicated to wellness and the harmonization of the body and the mind.
 
Natural and organic products are becoming a new trend in France.  This sector has shown an increase of 40 percent into two years in Europe, and is becoming a promising sector in France. 

The demand in France for ethno-cosmetic products is still increasing because of the lack of choice.  Ninety percent of ethno-cosmetic products are coming from the U.S.
 

Opportunities       

The best opportunities will be offered to U.S. companies which:

Invest heavily in promoting (i.e. through advertising and marketing) their products, in efforts to attract new consumers, keeping in mind it may take a long time to build a powerful image.

Bring something new and exciting to the consumer, who is already provided with a wide variety of products from established companies. 

“Cosmeceuticals”: Although the legislation is still unclear, the cosmetic industry uses this word to refer to cosmetic products that have medicinal or drug-like benefits.

Present their products in high-quality, new and innovative packaging materials.

Resources 

French trade association for cosmetics and beauty products (FIPAR)
33, avenue des Champs-Élysées
75008 Paris
Tel:  (+33.1) 56 69 67 89
Fax: (+33.1) 56 69 67 90
http://www.fipar.com

Major trade shows

Beyond Beauty Paris trade show – [http:// www.beyondbeautyparis.com]
(October 5-8, 2008)

U.S. Embassy Commercial Service Trade Specialists: Caroline.de.Villoutreys@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov , Rose.Marie.Faria@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov
Phone: (+33-1) 43 12 76 98 & 71 49

 

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