At the sixteenth edition of the show, industry professional, Kyle Rowe director of buying at NBTY Europe said; “It’s encouraging to see so much innovation under one roof, it really highlights that our industry in 2012 is in good health.”
The two day event organised by Diversified UK, represented the natural products, health food and organic sectors and is said to have attracted 600 exhibitors and 7,352 attendees.
Industry trends
According to Diversified, social media presence was a big feature and trend at this year’s show due to its growing importance in the industry.
For the first time, the show’s Keynote programme featured a Twitter-inspired ‘Trending Now’ session, whereby those tuned in had the opportunity to ask industry professionals about anything from QR codes to punk rock.
“Thousands of Twitter and Facebook followers were also able to share in the show’s activities via live updates and photos from the show’s exhibitors and attendees”, says event director Simon Barry.
Emergence of beauty segment
Moreover, Barry says active naturals and quirky packaging were also a huge trend this year, with the likes of Bee Venom taking centre stage alongside Green people’s anti-ageing range, Shangri La Organics’ vintage-inspired tubs and Stop The Water While Using Me’s distinctive branding.
“New launches at the show proved that’s there’s still room for fresh faces in the natural skincare sector from new names,” added Matt Chittock, editor of theNatural BeautyYearbook.
The new edition of the natural Beauty & Spa section included seminars by leading natural cosmetics brands such as Dr Hauschka, Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps, Green People, Balance Me and Pukka Herbs.
Cosmetics division brings home the award...
Cosmetic and personal care products also scooped a wide range of awards at the show which featured a total of 16 different categories, the awards for the cosmetics and personal care categories centred on: Best Organic Skincare Product, Best Organic Mother and Baby Product, Best Innovation in Organic Cosmetics and Best New Natural Beauty and Spa Product.