THE WHAT? You’ve heard of ‘field to plate’ but how about ‘field to skin’? That’s a new model of integrated and responsible sourcing that Clarins is hoping to achieve through its purchase of Domaine Sainte Colombe in France. THE DETAILS The 115-hectare site will become a production and processing site for plants according to the standards of regenerative agriculture and a laboratory for studying and researching new plant species. First cultivation is planned for autumn 2024, with harvest slated for 2025/6. The brand plans to grow some 50 species of trees and plants, including quince, almond, ap ..read more

THE WHAT? Henkel has launched an engagement program for its worldwide suppliers that aims to advance decarbonization along the value chain through the collection of emissions data, jointly defined actions for reduction and continuous upskilling. THE DETAILS Henkel will cooperate with Manufacture 2030 to offer participating suppliers individual support in assessing their baseline and setting measures for climate actions. The program will offer training and tracking. Suppliers can also export relevant data for the Carbon Disclosure Project, and use the data overview to gain access to green finan ..read more

THE WHAT? The US Environmental Protection Agency is hoping to protect Americans from forever chemicals by setting out a standard for drinking water for the first time. The regulatory body has set aside a US$1 billion pot to help states test their public water systems for PFAS. THE DETAILS According to a report published by Reuters, quoting a US Geological Survey, nearly half of US tap water samples contain PFAS. The new standard sets upper limits for PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS and HFPO-DA. Public water systems have been given three years to complete monitoring for these chemicals and five years t ..read more

THE WHAT?  Charlotte Tilbury, celebrated makeup artist and entrepreneur, is launching a new collection of fragrances designed to evoke a variety of emotions using IFF’s cutting-edge technology. The collection, known as neuroscents, seeks to empower users by enhancing their mood in the same way high-quality makeup or skincare might. THE DETAILS The launch marks a significant milestone for Charlotte Tilbury’s brand, which began in 2013 and aims to grow into a 1 billion-euro business across makeup, skincare, and now fragrances. This expansion into fragrances is seen as a strategic move to be ..read more

THE WHAT?  FC, the world’s leading mixed martial arts organization, has announced its partnership with Revlon’s fragrance brand, Curve for Men, as the Official Fragrance Partner of UFC. This marks the first time UFC has introduced a marketing partner in the fragrance category, paving the way for new promotional avenues. THE DETAILS Robby Miller, Vice President of UFC Global Partnerships, expressed enthusiasm about establishing Curve for Men as UFC’s first fragrance partner, noting the thoughtful consideration that goes into opening a new marketing category. He highlighted the alignment be ..read more

THE WHAT?  Coty has appointed Jared McCain, a Duke University basketball player, as the ambassador for Sally Hansen, a drugstore nail care brand. McCain, known for his athletic skills and unique fashion sense, notably his painted nails, is also entering the 2024 NBA draft. THE DETAILS Despite facing criticism and negative feedback on social media for his style choices, McCain actively promotes his preference for painted nails on his popular TikTok account, where he has over two million followers. He emphasizes his commitment to authenticity and his intention to continue expressing himself ..read more

THE WHAT? Estée Lauder has appointed the acclaimed Korean artist IU as their first Korean Global Brand Ambassador, where she will promote their leading products like Advanced Night Repair and Double Wear. Her first promotional campaign is scheduled for April 2024, and she joins a prestigious group of existing global ambassadors. THE DETAILS Justin Boxford, Global Brand President of Estée Lauder, expressed enthusiasm about IU’s new role, citing her extensive influence and ability to connect deeply with a global audience through her artistic endeavors and social media. He emphasized that IU’s in ..read more

THE WHAT?   Shiseido Americas Corporation has created a new Chief Operating Officer position for the recently acquired Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare brand and appointed Emmie Salaj, the current General Manager at Tory Burch Beauty, to this role, underscoring her notable advancement within the company while she continues in her existing capacity. THE DETAILS  The acquisition of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare has bolstered Shiseido Americas’ lineup, solidifying its position in the dermatologist-led, high-end skincare market. As the newly appointed COO, Emmie Salaj will work with the brand’s co ..read more

THE WHAT?  Macy’s Inc. has appointed Richard Clark and Richard L. Markee as new independent directors, resolving a proxy fight with activist investor Arkhouse Management Co. This resolution ended the investor’s push for a significant overhaul involving nine new director nominees initially proposed for the upcoming shareholder meeting. THE DETAILS Following the appointments, Arkhouse retracted its aggressive campaign to remake Macy’s board, which would have culminated in a substantial change at the May 17 shareholders’ meeting. By incorporating two of Arkhouse’s nominated directors, Macy’s ..read more

THE WHAT?  Germany’s leading department store chain, Galeria Karstadt Kaufhof, is set for a change of ownership after entering bankruptcy protection for the third time in four years. The company plans to keep most of its stores open as stated by the insolvency administrator, aiming to revitalize the chain amidst ongoing financial struggles. THE DETAILS A consortium, which includes U.S. private equity firm NRDC Equity Partners and German businessman Bernd Beetz’s BB Kapital SA, is poised to take over Galeria Karstadt Kaufhof. The completion of the acquisition is dependent on the approval o ..read more