L’Oréal said today that its European ‘solidarity plan’, effective immediately, aimed to support local health authorities, businesses and associations across the region.
Hydroalcoholic gel production ‘in large quantities’
L’Oréal said it would firstly intensify production of hydroalcoholic gels “in large quantities” across its factories to support French and European health authorities in the fight against the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak. Its La Roche-Posay branded gels would be distributed to hospitals, nursing homes and pharmacies to protect health professionals and its Garnier branded gel across food retailers to protect employees working through the nationwide lockdowns, the company said.
Jean-Paul Agon, chairman and CEO of the L’Oréal Group, said: “In this exceptional crisis situation, it is our responsibility to contribute in every way possible to the collective effort.”
L’Oréal freezes payments, pledges €1m financial support
The beauty major also announced measures to ease the financial burden for its smaller business partners that had been forced to close, such as hair salons and perfumeries – freezing payments until they reopened for business.
The beauty major also pledged €1m to partner associations helping the disadvantaged during uncertain times associated with the ongoing coronavirus outbreak. The associations supported by the L’Oréal Foundation would also be supplied with hygiene kits, containing products like shower gels and shampoos, to distribute among its social workers, volunteers and beneficiaries.
Hydroalcoholic gel shortage in France
Earlier this week, luxury goods major LMVH said it would produce hydroalcoholic gel at all its cosmetic and perfume sites across France in a bid to tackle the nationwide shortage. The prestige beauty brand was working closely with French authorities to ensure product was distributed where needed.