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News | UK premium beauty product market grew 9.4% in 2011

Latest research into UK beauty product sales has shown that the total premium beauty market grew by 9.4% to £1.7 billion last year.

The research from the NPD Group found that fragrance was both the largest and fastest growing category in the premium beauty market in 2011 with male and female fragrances each growing by 10.7% year-on-year to reach a market value of £815 million.

New launches as well as re-launches of existing lines contributed to this strong performance.  June Jensen, director for The NPD Group’s UK Beauty team, explained: “In 2011 some manufacturers tried a new approach – launching fragrances at the start of the year to maximize share of voice and sales opportunities in what is a quieter time for the sector – rather than waiting for the Christmas season when up to 60% of all sales have traditionally been made.”

She added: “High-end fashion brands are increasingly moving into the premium beauty market allowing consumers to indulge in affordable luxury. Whilst not everyone is lucky enough to be able to afford a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes, being able to own the fragrance gives consumers the chance to own a part of the luxury brand.”

The start of the year saw a strong push on lip colour, with launches and promotional activity from the likes of Lancôme, Dior, YSL, Chanel and Estee Lauder. This contributed towards the overall market growth in make-up of 8.5% for the year. 

Whereas skincare was the fastest growing category in 2010, growth slowed to 8.2% in the year.  Existing ranges in the category grew more slowly than in make-up and fragrance and were the main reason for the slowdown.

Jensen added: ”The UK prestige beauty market is experiencing one of the most robust sales periods ever.  Brand media investment, bigger in-store animation and price promotions have all been crucial foundations of this growth. 

“2011’s strong performance should reassure the industry that the consumer loves beauty, wants beauty and feels a need for beauty – however tough the economic environment might be.” 

Tagged as: npd group | beauty products

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