Female founders leading the way as homegrown firms capitalise on major boost in the industry
Ireland’s increasing presence at the annual industry trade show Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna – the most important beauty trade show in Europe which took place from March 20 to 22 – is evidence of the impact homegrown Irish-owned brands are having in this busy global market.
Cosmoprof is the one of the most important international trade shows in the beauty industry. It provides a wonderful opportunity for brands to source new buyers and partners and to gather key market insights, particularly in relation to raw ingredients and packaging.
This year’s exhibition welcomed over 255,000 executives and for the third time Enterprise Ireland was proud to host an Irish pavilion at this landmark event. It showcased eight of the country’s exciting and innovative brands in skincare, fragrance and cosmetic manufacturing.
There was strong Irish representation, including Bánór Skincare, Cosmetic Creations, Elave Sensitive Skincare, Formulae Prescott, Green Angel, Kinvara Skincare, Regency Fragrances and SOSU Cosmetics.
Launched in 2006, Green Angel is one of Ireland’s most well-recognised luxury skincare brands, using unique Irish ingredients like seaweed.
Elave Sensitive Skincare, a global leader in body, face, sun, junior and baby skincare categories, also has a long history as part of the Gardiner Family Apothecary – the country’s first family apothecary founded 90 years ago.
One of the newer brands at the event, Bánór, is making waves as Ireland’s first skincare line made from sheep’s milk, representing an exciting new generation of brands using novel ingredients to develop innovative products.
Formulae Prescott is also blazing trails with their “skinimalism” approach, developing multi-functional products that are natural, waterless and gender-neutral.
As the sector continues to expand, Irish brands are leading the way in clean, green beauty.
This resonates strongly with both buyers and consumers with the quality of their products, their authenticity and their connection to the natural landscape, as well as their science driven approach and results proven efficacy.
Unique stories are also important to buyers seeking originality – a genuine story that will connect a brand to a consumer and gives purpose to their purchase.
Ireland’s pharmaceutical talent and expertise is perhaps the key element underlying the beauty sector success, as many brands and start-ups have access to state-of-the-art manufacturing and research facilities.
Irish brands are also adopting science-led innovation and efficacy by seeking international standards and accreditation.
Companies like The Handmade Soap Company, The Kind Brand Company (TanOrganic/Vegan Tan), Gardiner Family Apothecary, Easydry and We Are Riley have all attained B Corp certification.
This signifies that a company meets high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency, demonstrating a commitment to using business as a force for good – all of which are increasingly important to today’s consumers and buyers.
Another important factor which has contributed to the success and growth that this sector has enjoyed is recent years is the positive response from Irish consumers and retailers, who are increasingly supportive of Irish-owned companies.
Enterprise Ireland recently launched our new five-year strategy, “Delivering for Ireland, Leading Globally (2025-2029)”, and our purpose is to Accelerate Sustainable Irish Business.
Our long-term ambition is that exporting Irish companies become the primary driver of the Irish economy, and this includes the innovative consumer focused companies we work with.
If you’re a brand in the beauty and personal care sector looking to establish a presence in the Irish market or overseas, talk to Enterprise Ireland.
Visit Enterprise-Ireland.com today to learn more.
Rachael James is a senior development adviser, Retail, Consumer & Online with Enterprise Ireland.
