Consumer demand sees strong growth for natural cosmetics in the Middle East

An increase in consumer demand for green and organic products has seen the natural cosmetics market in the Middle East grow 20 per cent in 2011, with the UAE market comprising the major portion of regional demand.

As a general rule, consumer awareness is the main driver in demand for natural and organic beauty products globally, and the Middle East is no different, according to recent figures issued by Organic Monitor.

The Middle East market for natural and organic products is still small as compared with that in Europe and North America; however growth is still expected to continue in the future.

Considerable growth expected

The study by Organic Monitor indicated that though the natural and organic sector was currently only 0.1 per cent of the total Middle East market, as compared to 3 per cent in Europe and North America, growth is expected to continue at a considerable pace.

Fuelling this growth is the increasing consumer demand for green and organic beauty products, which are perceived as better because they are deemed chemically clean.

Also, driven by an increased consumer demand, there is greater availability of store space for this segment within the retail sector.

Event to raise further awareness

Thanks to this data, Beautyworld Middle East 2012, the trade event for the beauty industry in the Middle East, is expected to reflect this increasingly popular sector, with exhibitors showcasing an increasing range of natural and organic beauty products and services.

“The natural and organic sector is still in the initial growth period in the Middle East,” said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of organiser Epoc Messe Frankfurt, “and as such there is huge potential to be unlocked.”

“An exhibition such as Beautyworld Middle East, with its comprehensive regional footprint, can play a significant role in highlighting such beneficial trends throughout the wider region,” he added.

The Beautyworld Middle East event is taking place May 29-31, 2012, at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibiton Centre.