Although Ireland is a small island (five million inhabitants), its cosmetics market is flourishing (995 million euros in 2020). And for all French skincare brands wishing to establish themselves on Irish soil, Business France’s Team France Export has designed a fact sheet containing the main information about the country.
The Irish cosmetics sector declined by 4.1% in 2020 due to the health crisis. “Make-up (-17.4%) and perfumes (-13.7%) have been strongly impacted. This is also the case for suncare (-8.3%) and men’s care (-7%). On the other hand, hygiene products experienced a strong demand (+14.2%),” comments Business France. “The Irish cosmetics market is expected to fully recover from the impact of Covid-19 by 2023.”
Market characteristics
The sector is mature and competitive. The major international groups are all present (L’Oreal UK, Allegro, Unilever, Procter&Gamble). The local market is starting to emerge with young players offering organic and natural cosmetics.
Positioning of the French offer
France is the country’s main supplier of beauty products. “With the Brexit, Ireland becomes the gateway to the British market for French and European companies,” explains Business France.
Opportunities
The key sectors in Ireland are:
• Products combining efficiency and quality (a question of purchasing power linked to the health crisis)
• Premium ranges
• Professional quality cosmetics
• Natural and organic lines (consumers’ sensitivity towards the planet)
Access keys
Without a local presence, the search for an importer-distributor (with a sales, marketing and animation force) is essential.
To get known by Irish prescribers, it …
