Dispensing system targets holiday consumers

An innovative new product dispensing system introduced by US airport DFW (Dallas Forth Worth) targets the growing consumer need for ease of purchase and accessibility when purchasing cosmetics this holiday season.

The dispensing system, manufactured by Zoom Systems, is a way to retail and dispense numerous cosmetic products during and after store opening hours, without having to go in-store and spend long periods of time queuing. Neutrogena and Proactiv Facial Care are the first personal care manufacturers to sell their products through new the system.

Mark Mullins, executive vice president for Zoom Systems said: 'Our goal is to make the passenger experience as enjoyable and efficient as possible, which is certainly a priority during hectic holiday travel times'.

Many cosmetic companies are looking at alternative retailing routes during the 2006 holiday period with online cosmetic sales set to surge, taking advantage of the convenience factor the Zoom machines are capitalizing on.

Research has predicted a massive $264 million increase in online sales this holiday season, with the comparable season in 2005, which only reached the $10 million mark.

Jupiter Research reported that 'All indicators point to holiday 2006 being the biggest season yet for online shopping'. A statement that could also influence cosmetic manufacturers last minute marketing and retail plans for the 2006 holiday period.

The machines allow the consumer to view many products on a computer screen, all with extensive product specifications attached, such as the benefits of a Neutrogena face cream, as if they were purchasing online. They then make their selections, purchase the products using a debit or credit cards and receive the purchases on the spot, however, the machines are, as yet, unable to take cash payments.

The systems, located at 13 different locations around the airport, have been introduced at a time where convenience of purchase looks set to take priority for the cosmetics consumer in the run up to Christmas period.

Speaking of the need for convenient shopping this 2006 holiday season, Cori Tuck, Director of merchant solutions at online retail shop, Shopcom, stated: 'as a busy working Mom myself I understand the convenience and ease of shopping online.'

'When your responsible for your family's holiday traditions, including buying gifts for a dozen or so people, anything you can do ahead of time or at night while the kids are asleep gives you cheer'.