Luxury goods are remarkably resilient in the face of economic downturns, even if today’s consumer is in the mindset of “buy better, buy less”. Along with quality, craftsmanship and originality, there’s more to the recipe for success: a brand needs to be desirable. A few top brands share their secrets on how to maintain that love affair with the consumer to ensure growth and staying power.

What exactly is clean beauty? Therein lies the dilemma as the claim is still unclear for consumers, brands and retailers. A recent class action suit in the US against Sephora just goes to show how much confusion is out there. It’s time for “clean” communication that’s transparent, understandable and honest.

Independent perfumer Rosie Jane Johnson of By/Rosie Jane is experiencing a surge in sales induced by Instagram and TikTok influencers. People are craving comfort and calm with a bit of nurturing thrown in, yet there’s also a need for experimentation. Gone are the days of signature scents as people embrace the fragrance wardrobe concept. But keep it small because in 2023, we’re still far from long term commitments!

Puig, in collaboration with Michael Edwards’ Fragrances of the World, is on a mission to make fragrance discovery – and shopping - easier for the consumer. The new WikiParfum website and app taps into a database of over 20,000 mainstream and niche fragrance brands, so in a few clicks there’s a wealth of information at your fingertips. This tool empowers the user to find alternatives to favorites or to branch out to try something new.

Veronika (Nika) Hamdusch, the owner of NIKA Secret Avenue Parfümerie, an independent perfumery in Germany, in the city of Stendal made the courageous decision to open her boutique during the pandemic. It has turned out to be a great success and is celebrating its one year anniversary this month!
One of the most memorable aspects of her time at NIKA Secret Avenue Parfümerie was Ms. Hamdusch's expertise in matching scents to her clientele. Visitors are welcome to try the scents, after chatting over coffee or even champagne. This relaxed approach has ensured a loyal and happy community.

The Fragrance Creators Association has announced the creation of the Fragrance Creators Association Responsible Industry Stewardship Pledge. The commitment consists of 10 key principles focused on environmental and social impacts, sustainability, employee growth and development, worker safety and good governance. Farah K. Ahmed, president and CEO of Fragrance Creators, shared, “The industry's sustainable growth depends on a healthy planet and respect for the people and communities who inhabit it today and tomorrow. This is the purpose of this commitment and we thank our members for their commitment to responsible management of the fragrance value chain”.

Continuing the collaboration with Pantone, Firmenich announced the creation of Live Bold Eau de Parfum. This fragrance is said to "capture the exuberance, optimism and rebellious spirit of Viva Magenta, the pantone color of 2023". Ilaria Resta, president of Global Perfumery, shares: “Earlier this year, we partnered with renowned trend agency LSN Future Laboratory to identify prevailing trends and explore sensory partnerships that will elevate olfactory innovation. Our report has shown that strength and optimism, characteristics expressed by Viva Magenta, are fundamental values that we should embrace in the future”.