France becomes launch pad for New Zealand organic cosmetics

France has been earmarked as the epicentre for natural awareness, with five New Zealand natural cosmetic companies targeting the area in the hope of success in the strong European organic market.

A trade event was held in Paris this week by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE).

The event showcased natural product presentations by the New Zealand based companies Trilogy, Skinfood, Art a Face, Living Nature, and Antipodes to over 50 French retailers and beauty journalists.

Trade minister for New Zealand Phil Goff stated that New Zealand natural cosmetics products were highly sought after in France due to their 'positive reputation for quality, innovation and environmental purity'.

And he is therefore hoping to further the country's presence in France with the five new company offerings.

Goff stated, "There is a growing international consumer demand for high quality natural products.

This has contributed to the marketing success of these companies in France - quite possibly the world's most exacting cosmetic market."

The companys represented in the trade show manufacturer and distribute cosmetic products that fit into the organic bracket, allegedly drawing on the extensive resources New Zealand has to offer.

And with Europe boasting a €1bn organic cosmetics industry, according to Organic Monitor, the companies are no doubt hoping to capitalise on the growing consumer desire for products that are deemed kind to the skin and the environment.

"The interest in, and demand for, 100 per cent natural products in France was underlined by the fact that over thirty media representatives, including some from major international fashion publications Elle and Marie Claire, as well as representatives from some of France's major retail chains, attended" Goff said of the trade event.

Some of the five companies attending the event already retail in exclusive French boutiques, such as Printemps.

However, the companies were hoping to raise further awareness by presenting their products to the international media.

The companies are due to take a tour of the industry cluster 'Cosmetics Valley' in Paris, where major multinational companies such as Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent have their manufacturing plants.