Sustainable cosmetics at a fair price: this is the plan of the German giant
The cosmetics industry today more than ever, is required to keep very high standards of quality, both in the creation of high-performing, safe products as well as respecting the environment and the production process. Such virtuous model is represented by cosnova, one of the European leaders in colour cosmetics. We will talk about it with Nadine Langen, CEO of cosnova Italia joining us from her office in Milan.
–How did the cosnova journey begin?
«cosnova was established in 2001 by Christina Oster-Daum and Javier González. The company launched the brands essence in 2002 and CATRICE in 2004. In the year 2013, essence became the best-selling brand in the decorative cosmetics segment of the European market. cosnova Beauty with headquarter in Sulzbach/Germany is managed by the Executive Managers Mathias Delor, Javier González, Gesine Hild, Dirk Lauber, Christina Oster-Daum, Hilko Prahl and Yvonne Wutzler. At the end of 2018, the firm counted about 650 employees world-wide. Its cosmetics brands are sold in over 80 countries, in Europe, in North and South America, in the Middle East, in Asia, in Australia and New Zealand, and in Africa. The main clients are drugstores, food retailers, department stores, perfumeries, and fashion chains as well as various online trade partners and of course e-commerce players. Our mission “Make Everyone Feel More Beautiful” encloses our commitment in the creation of affordable and sustainable high-quality cosmetics products».
–What is your idea of sustainability?
«In 2016, a broad strategic process focused on sustainability was launched. We organised open discussions, involving over 900 stakeholders between external partners, associations, bloggers, employees, and clients. We, then, built our sustainability model on three key indicators: non-harmful products, zero waste packaging and good working conditions for our business partners. Every 6 weeks our sustainability round table meets to discuss results and objectives. Following our goal of “clean beauty”, we are increasingly investing to develop vegan products for both brands, which already are 100% cruelty free. All our products are free of microplastics, PEG, parabens, and favouring sustainable agriculture we utilise the least possible amount of palm oil».
–Your main brands are essence and CATRICE. How are they different from one another?
«essence stands for the fun in beauty and is a brand with a wide range of colours, textures and celebrates the motto “PINK & PROUD”. We develop make-up products following the latest market trends at a competitive price point. essence’s products are made exclusively with vegan ingredients, a result we wish to reach for all products made by cosnova. CATRICE on the other hand was designed for creating cosmetics with a professional approach, highly performing in elegant packaging. Here as well, for those who are passionate about make-up and want to create joyful moments in their life’s. We offer products with exclusive and environmentally friendly ingredients: as confirmation of our commitments, we received the prestigious Bio Award 2021. We see this as a recognition of our ongoing work».
While persistently pursuing these commitments, in 2022 cosnova celebrates its 20 years anniversary and it does so, continuing along the road of sustainability. Its mission “Make Everyone Feel More Beautiful” constantly inspires the brand to improve and to create exceptional products that meet everyone’s needs. cosnova, for the first time, filled a gap in the cosmetics market, developing make-up products that are economically affordable, trend-oriented with high quality. We look forward to next year and all the exciting projects to come.
