In today’s article, we will explore how consumer expectations are evolving and how technological innovations influence them. We will discuss what cosmetic brands need to do to attract customer attention. We will analyze current trends and future changes, considering the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the cosmetic sample sector in the coming future.
The value of the cosmetic market
The global fragrance market is worth tens of billions of dollars and continues to grow. A report by Fortune Business Insights indicates that by 2032, the global fragrance market will be valued at over $77 billion. The growth of this market entails increased competition and consumer demands.
According to a study by ASM Research Solution Strategy, 82% of consumers prefer to try a product sample before purchasing the full-size version, emphasizing the importance of samples in the purchasing process.
Key trends in the market
Below are some trends that have emerged in the market and where we can implement them as a cosmetic brand:
Eco-friendly packaging
The ecological direction is increasingly visible in various industries. In the cosmetic sector, this trend is beginning to influence all aspects of production, including the choice of raw materials. Cosmetic companies are focusing on reducing plastic use, setting ambitious goals to completely or significantly reduce its use. Eco-friendly brands understand that not following this trend can result in a decline in their product popularity in the market.
Quality of packaging
Product packaging is extremely important, especially in the cosmetic industry. Research by Euromonitor International shows that 74% of consumers pay attention to packaging, and 59% are willing to pay more for a product packaged in a more attractive and eco-friendly way. Therefore, we must focus not only on the quality of the cosmetics themselves but also on their presentation. It is also important that the packaging is produced in accordance with the principle of sustainable development.
Effective testing of multiple roducts at once
Consumers do not like spending a lot of money on unproven products; they like to test them before purchase. The answer to this is Discovery Sets, which are sets of various samples. This is an increasingly popular solution that allows consumers to test many products at once in the comfort of their homes, especially since many purchases are made online after the pandemic. These types of sets not only facilitate the selection of the best product for consumers but also increase engagement and loyalty, providing us as manufacturers with the benefit of increased sales.
Subscription boxes and loyalty programs
Subscription-based loyalty programs offer a dynamic way for brands to build an engaged community of loyal customers. This means that as consumers, we no longer expect just free samples but are also willing to buy mini products to be sure of the quality before purchasing the full-size version. An interesting example is the Sephora Unlimited program or the Glossybox subscription boxes, which allow testing products from various categories in one shipment.
New Technologies in sampling
Modern technologies, such as augmented reality (AR), enable virtual testing of cosmetics, which is particularly useful in the era of pandemics when access to traditional testers in stores was limited. With AR, consumers can safely and conveniently experiment with different products, increasing satisfaction and reducing the risk of dissatisfaction with the purchase. As cosmetic brands, we can implement this technology by designing applications that show how we look in different hair colors or selecting the right foundation shade for the face. This is a revolutionary way of testing cosmetic products.
Conclusions
Cosmetic samples are evolving, adapting to growing consumer expectations and new market challenges. Introducing innovations such as creative and eco-friendly packaging, personalizing shopping experiences, or AR technologies responds to the needs of modern consumers, who are increasingly conscious in choosing cosmetics. The cosmetic sample market will undoubtedly continue to develop, offering increasingly new solutions that will be appreciated by consumers worldwide. The story of Josephine Esther Lauder, who started producing cosmetics in her kitchen and built one of the most prestigious brands in the world through a strategy of free samples, shows that this strategy has been effective for many years and will continue to be one of the factors supporting the sale of cosmetics.
And how do you conduct a sampling campaign to achieve the highest profit? Check out our article: How do you prepare a sampling campaign to bring the greatest profit?
To find packaging that will capture consumers’ attention, reach out to us and download the Carla Millon catalog, which is an excellent source of inspiration. Let’s create something amazing together.
Sources:
https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/perfume-market-102273
