May’s top news stories

Shiseido signs deal to boost strategic partnership with AS Watson

Japanese multinational cosmetics firm Shiseido Company signed a new pact with A.S. Watson Group to boost its strategic partnership and jointly develop beauty innovations.

The new agreement sets the stage for the companies to develop a three-year partnership plan to co-create innovations to cater to the growing demand for Japanese beauty products in Asia.

In July, Shiseido and A.S. Watson co-created the exclusive product range of Urban Damage Care under Shiseido’s derma skincare brand ‘d program’. The partners also launched d program in Watsons China.

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Brazil-based Natura&Co to acquire UK-based Avon

Natura&Co announced its plans to acquire Avon Products in an all-share transaction, making the former to become the fourth leading pure-play beauty.

Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.

The combined group will hold leading positions in relationship selling through the two firms’ over 6.3 million consultants and representatives, a global footprint through 3,200 stores, besides an expanded digital presence across all companies.

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L’Oréal launches new direct-to-consumer brand Color&Co

L’Oréal launched its new direct-to-consumer brand Color&Co to offer personalised technology, customisation and guidance from professional colourists.

The new product uses a combination of both advanced technology and human expertise.

Color&Co clients can achieve colour results supported by colourist consultation and expert advice.

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Naples Soap signs distribution deal with department store chain Dillard’s

Skin and hair care products maker Naples Soap Company signed a distribution agreement to sell its bath bombs through stores and online platform of American department store chain Dillard’s.

Under the agreement, Naples Soap’s range of bath bombs will be sold through Dillard’s 261 outlets in 29 US states, as well as online at Dillards.com by the middle of next month.

Naples Soap claims that its bath bombs have been formulated using cocoa butter, shea butter, Epsom salt and essential oils.

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Neora launches Invisi-Bloc Sunscreen Gel with smart SPF

Skincare and wellness products company Neora added ‘Age IQ Invisi-Bloc Sunscreen Gel’ to its line-up of skincare essentials.

A broad-spectrum SPF 40, Invisi-Bloc provides protection from premature ageing due to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, a major risk factor for most skin cancers, digital blue light from smartphones, computers, TVs and LEDs, as well as environmental pollution and smoke.

Invisi-Bloc can be applied daily in the morning and Neora claims that the clear formula ensures quick and easy absorption without any streaks or residue.

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CBDfx unveils CBD oil face serum Rejuvediol

Los Angeles-based CBDfx launched Rejuvediol, a phytonutrient-rich CBD oil face serum formulated to reduce signs of ageing, regenerate skin cells and promotes healthy, glowing skin.

Rejuvediol consists of 22 curated oils, extracts, and botanicals that were hand-picked.

Claimed to be inspired by plants, earth and sea, Rejuvediol is beauty product ‘dedicated to nature and simplicity’.

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Kiehl’s launches new serum-infused water cream for skincare

American cosmetic brand Kiehl’s has expanded its Calendula family with the launch of Calendula Serum-Infused Water Cream for skincare.

The new product comes with a weightless formula that increases hydration, leaving the skin soft and a fresh finish.

The lightweight moisturiser provides instant relief from skin irritation and also strengthens the skin barrier. It also helps to reduce the early signs of ageing and redness.

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Perrigo to take over oral care company Ranir for $750m

Irish company Perrigo signed a definitive agreement for the acquisition of oral care company Ranir Global Holdings in a deal valued at $750m.

Ranir’s portfolio holds more than 300 customised oral care products, including power toothbrush heads, whitening strips, power toothbrush handles, floss, manual toothbrushes, dentures and travel kits.

Perrigo CEO and president Murray Kessler said: “The addition of Ranir to the Perrigo family illustrates a key component of our new strategy, accelerating growth by pursuing adjacent self-care categories. I can’t emphasise enough the opportunity we believe exists by combining these two companies that are so closely aligned.”