The Notes Shanghai tradeshow in March welcomed 200 domestic and international fragrance brands, proving the Chinese market still boasts opportunity for growth. Observers see consumers seeking products that they connect to on an emotional level, while also appreciating creativity and innovation in scent.

In this article, the author investigates several well known brands to find the real story behind fragrance creation. The crux is that the question of whether product is created In-house or outsourced matters in terms of transparency and honesty as some brands position themselves as artisanal with heritage when it’s not always the case.

Did you know Spain is the second largest global exporter of perfumes and essential oils? In this interview the Barcelona Perfumery Congress founder talks about what to expect at this year’s sixth annual event. From networking to sensory activities to discovering cutting-edge fragrance innovation, the June event is a must for industry professionals.

Brazil is one of the largest consumers of fragrance in the world, yet the niche sector is still underdeveloped. Steep import taxes and limited distribution are a challenge but this expert believes there are ways to penetrate the market.

Can appetite suppression medications also curb your hunger for gourmand fragrances? One reporter investigates the reasons behind her altered sense of smell from a clinical and psychological perspective.

dsm-firmenich and Initio Parfums Privés are collaborating on a three-prong approach to fragrance development where olfaction, emotion and neuroscience meet and are manifested in fragrance collections organized by function. Read about the latest launch in which science reinforces the power of a perfume.

The awards season is upon us and in the world of niche perfumery we salute the Institute for Art & Olfaction who has just announced the 2025 Golden Pear finalists. The awards, which recognize excellence amongst independent, artisan and experimental practitioners with scent, will be announced in May in Los Angeles. See the full list of finalists here. Good luck to all!

UK lawyers are being contacted by brands who want to legally create dupes as well as by brands who want to protect themselves against these copies. Several attorneys explain the complexity of the argument, and one suggests these companies pay royalties to the copied brand. What to do when the young generation feels it’s cool to get a bargain?