Glow up: Irish brands reach global heights at Cosmoprof 2024

The global cosmetics market has experienced almost continuous growth since 2004, with projections it could reach revenues of almost €120 billion by 2028.

For cosmetics brands looking to identify expansion opportunities for them in this period of growth, industry event Cosmoprof is the holy grail, as it annually attracts top beauty names and global experts. 

Eight Irish cosmetics companies travelled to the event in Italy in March to showcase their brands, connect with potential partners and explore opportunities in new markets. 

Well-known Irish-owned companies like LA Pacific, Family Gardiner Apothecary, Green Angel and NunaÏa Beauty returned to exhibit in the Irish Pavilion again, where they were joined by new exhibitors from Ireland, including G5® Haute Cosmétiques by LLR-G5, GROUND Wellbeing, Pestle & Mortar and The Kind Brand Company.

Renowned across the industry, the Irish brands already have a strong global reputation for high-quality, award-winning products. In fact, NunaÏa Beauty last year scooped the Green & Organic award at the Cosmoprof Awards, which is often viewed by industry experts as being the Oscars of beauty.

The theme at the Irish Pavilion this year was ‘Driven by purpose, perfected by nature’, reflecting the Irish beauty industry’s commitment to making positive, sustainable change. 

Now in its 55^th year, Cosmoprof annually hosts around 3,000 suppliers, manufacturers, brand owners, buyers, distributors, retailers and operators from more than 60 countries. And this year’s event, which was hosted in Bologna, Italy, attracted almost 250,000 attendees from 150 countries.

Cosmoprof is just the tip of the iceberg for Irish cosmetics brands. The wider European market – specifically Germany, France and Italy – offers fresh opportunities for Irish companies in this sector who are hoping to explore and identify new opportunities in new markets.

Opportunity knocks in Germany

The largest cosmetics market in Europe, the German beauty and personal care products sector is estimated at €16.5 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach €19 billion by 2029, reports Mordor Intelligence. 

Companies considering exploring the German cosmetics scene should consider going green. In fact, 70% of German consumers choose sustainable beauty products, according to the German Consumer Centre.

Irish brands like WaterWipes, Pestle & Mortar and Tan Organic continue to gain popularity in Germany, as people are drawn to their ethical and sustainably sourced products.

While price is a big factor in shaping buyer decisions, there’s been an increase in demand for premium products and a surge in online cosmetics shopping. 

France is full of appeal for Irish brands

In 2024, the cosmetics market in France will be worth more than €2.5 billion, according to Statista, offering huge opportunity for Irish brands.

Leading Irish names like WaterWipes, LLR-G5, Tan Organic and Inis have already enjoyed success in the French market, gaining traction nationwide. 

Once again, sustainability is an important factor here, with more and more French consumers opting for natural and organic products. According to a survey for the Slow Cosmétique Association, over 90% of French women buy natural or organic cosmetics at least once a year.

A local partner on the ground with the language is a huge advantage for Irish brands entering the French market, while a solid marketing or PR strategy will go a long way. 

Italy’s sophisticated market has plenty to offer

As the third biggest cosmetics market in Europe, Italy is also a lucrative market to consider. The green theme is once again a driving factor, with natural and sustainable products accounting for 25% of cosmetic consumption, reports Cosmetica Italia. 

Brands keen to make it in Italy need a unique and innovative offering to succeed in this sophisticated and competitive market. 

Having the right distribution partner is also key, while industry events – like Cosmoprof – help build connections and spark interest from potential new customers. 

Get support on the ground

Enterprise Ireland is committed to helping innovative Irish companies to start, scale and grow, and to achieve their global ambition.  With our network of 39 overseas offices, Irish cosmetic companies that are looking to explore new exporting opportunities can get the right support to help reach new international customers.

If you’d like to get involved in Cosmoprof 2025, contact Rachel James,Senior Development Adviser, Retail, Consumer & Online Team,rachel.james@enterprise-ireland.com