Latest news with #Kolmar
Korea Herald
17-07-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
‘Tariff safety zone': Kolmar Korea completes full-line US plant
Kolmar Korea, South Korea's leading cosmetics contract manufacturer, said Thursday it completed construction of a second US factory, reinforcing its tariff-safe production base for clients looking to sidestep American import duties. The new factory, spanning 17,805 square meters in Scott Township, Pennsylvania, enables full-spectrum original design manufacturing in the US, including color cosmetics, skin care and sunscreen, in contrast to its first US facility, which focused solely on color cosmetics. As the first Korean beauty company to build a full-scale manufacturing facility in the US, Kolmar explained the plant will help address tariff concerns through localized production and thus allow for faster response to the needs of global clients. The company also holds over-the-counter certification from the US Food and Drug Administration to manufacture sunscreens, a necessary step due to their classification as over-the-counter drugs. 'Kolmar's story began in the US a century ago,' said Kolmar Group Vice Chair Yoon Sang-hyun at the plant's opening ceremony, attended by state officials including Pennsylvania State Rep. Bridget Kosierowski. 'With our second US facility as the launchpad for a new vision, we will build an innovation-driven ecosystem with value chain partners and grow into North America's largest cosmetics manufacturing hub," Yoon added. The new facility will produce up to 120 million product units annually, bringing total US output to 300 million units when combined with its first plant. Including its Canadian subsidiary, the company's total North American production capacity will reach 470 million units annually, making Kolmar the largest beauty original design manufacturer in the region. For the new plant, the company has replicated the advanced manufacturing systems from its facility in Sejong, including key infrastructure such as manufacturing, filling and packaging areas. Production lines are equipped with artificial intelligence-powered quality monitoring and optimization systems designed to minimize defect rates, the company explained. 'By mitigating tariff burdens and responding swiftly to the varied needs of clients expanding into North America, Europe and Latin America, we aim to deepen our global partnerships and broaden our international presence,' a company official said.
Korea Herald
26-06-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
Kolmar Korea Aims to Capture Global Skincare Market with "Uniquely Korean" Cleansers and Facial Masks
SEOUL, South Korea, June 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kolmar Korea, a leading global cosmetics ODM (Original Development Manufacturer), is ramping up its international skincare strategy with K-beauty products that spotlight "Uniquely Korean" natural ingredients. As the global trend of "ingredient-led beauty"—which prioritizes natural components and proven efficacy—continues to grow, Kolmar is winning over consumers worldwide with its innovative cleansers and facial masks. The global market for cleansers and facial masks has recently seen rapid growth, fueled in part by short-form video platforms like TikTok. Notably, the "Korean skincare routine" has become a major beauty keyword, prompting consumer interest to expand beyond sun care into cleansing and masking products. In response, Kolmar Korea is accelerating its global push by collaborating with brand partners to develop skincare products featuring natural Korean ingredients. A standout example is the Mung Bean pH-Balanced Cleansing Foam, co-developed with skincare brand Beplain. This product reimagines mung beans—used in Korea as a natural cleanser for over 1,000 years—with a low-irritation formula and powerful cleansing effects. With more than 10 million units sold, it has been well-received in markets including the U.S., France, China, and Vietnam, gaining international traction through organic social media buzz. Kolmar is also advancing the development of natural mud-based facial masks. The Relief Mud Mask, created in partnership with natural mud cosmetics brand BRMUD, features over 30% Boryeong mud—sourced from one of the world's five largest tidal flats in Korea. It utilizes ultra-fine powder particles—1/40th the size of wheat flour—to gently yet effectively absorb impurities. Nicknamed the " Cardi B Mud Mask" after the American singer praised it on TikTok, the product is now sold in 11 countries, including at Costco stores in the U.S. Driving these innovations is Kolmar Korea's industry-leading R&D capability. More than 30% of the company's workforce are researchers, and roughly 6% of annual sales are invested in R&D. The company's competitive edge is rooted in expertise built from collaborations with approximately 4,300 global clients. Kolmar continues to pioneer the discovery of unique Korean cosmetic ingredients. Recently, it scientifically validated the anti-aging effects of Spiraea Salicifolia, publishing the findings in an international SCI-level journal, and secured the ingredient's listing in the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary (ICID). Last year, the company identified the hair-loss prevention benefits of Sophora flavescens extract, a legume, and presented the research at an international academic conference, gaining widespread attention. Kolmar is also commercializing the scents of native Korean plants such as the Rose of Sharon and lotus to promote the sensory value of traditional Korean botanicals. A Kolmar Korea spokesperson stated, "As global interest in K-beauty expands beyond sun care into holistic skincare, we're enhancing our market competitiveness by combining advanced technology with Korea's natural treasures. Through continuous R&D investment and innovation, we aim to lead the global skincare routine with uniquely Korean ingredients."
Cision Canada
26-06-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Kolmar Korea Aims to Capture Global Skincare Market with "Uniquely Korean" Cleansers and Facial Masks
SEOUL, South Korea, June 26, 2025 /CNW/ -- Kolmar Korea, a leading global cosmetics ODM (Original Development Manufacturer), is ramping up its international skincare strategy with K-beauty products that spotlight "Uniquely Korean" natural ingredients. As the global trend of "ingredient-led beauty"—which prioritizes natural components and proven efficacy—continues to grow, Kolmar is winning over consumers worldwide with its innovative cleansers and facial masks. The global market for cleansers and facial masks has recently seen rapid growth, fueled in part by short-form video platforms like TikTok. Notably, the "Korean skincare routine" has become a major beauty keyword, prompting consumer interest to expand beyond sun care into cleansing and masking products. In response, Kolmar Korea is accelerating its global push by collaborating with brand partners to develop skincare products featuring natural Korean ingredients. A standout example is the Mung Bean pH-Balanced Cleansing Foam, co-developed with skincare brand Beplain. This product reimagines mung beans—used in Korea as a natural cleanser for over 1,000 years—with a low-irritation formula and powerful cleansing effects. With more than 10 million units sold, it has been well-received in markets including the U.S., France, China, and Vietnam, gaining international traction through organic social media buzz. Kolmar is also advancing the development of natural mud-based facial masks. The Relief Mud Mask, created in partnership with natural mud cosmetics brand BRMUD, features over 30% Boryeong mud—sourced from one of the world's five largest tidal flats in Korea. It utilizes ultra-fine powder particles—1/40th the size of wheat flour—to gently yet effectively absorb impurities. Nicknamed the " Cardi B Mud Mask" after the American singer praised it on TikTok, the product is now sold in 11 countries, including at Costco stores in the U.S. Driving these innovations is Kolmar Korea's industry-leading R&D capability. More than 30% of the company's workforce are researchers, and roughly 6% of annual sales are invested in R&D. The company's competitive edge is rooted in expertise built from collaborations with approximately 4,300 global clients. Kolmar continues to pioneer the discovery of unique Korean cosmetic ingredients. Recently, it scientifically validated the anti-aging effects of Spiraea Salicifolia, publishing the findings in an international SCI-level journal, and secured the ingredient's listing in the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary (ICID). Last year, the company identified the hair-loss prevention benefits of Sophora flavescens extract, a legume, and presented the research at an international academic conference, gaining widespread attention. Kolmar is also commercializing the scents of native Korean plants such as the Rose of Sharon and lotus to promote the sensory value of traditional Korean botanicals. A Kolmar Korea spokesperson stated, "As global interest in K-beauty expands beyond sun care into holistic skincare, we're enhancing our market competitiveness by combining advanced technology with Korea's natural treasures. Through continuous R&D investment and innovation, we aim to lead the global skincare routine with uniquely Korean ingredients."
Korea Herald
26-04-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
Korean sunscreen flying off US shelves amid tariff fears
Korean giants Kolmar, Cosmax expand sunscreen production in US, aiming to navigate FDA rules, minimize tariff risks Amid the US government's tariff-fueled standoff with the rest of the world, some Americans appear to be stockpiling imported goods in anticipation of looming price hikes. Among the more unlikely items flying off the shelves are Korean-made sunscreen brands, which have quietly built a cult following in the United States. According to a report last week by The Washington Post, Korean sunscreen ranks among the most hoarded consumer goods amid tariff fears, based on data gleaned from social media posts and online message boards. Lauding Korean sunscreen for superior performance, the paper highlighted three standout qualities: reliable UV protection, lightweight textures and compatibility with layered cosmetics. The article even suggests Korean sunscreen formulations make their American counterparts seem about as good as scrambled eggs for preventing sun damage. 'Looming tariff measures on Korean imports appear to have nudged American consumers to stockpile Korean sunscreens, which are regarded as superior in both quality and affordability compared to their US counterparts,' said an industry official. Another concern driving American consumers' panic buying stems from Korean brands like Skin1004 and Beauty of Joseon pulling products from the US market earlier this year. The move was part of an effort to reformulate and therefore reduce long-term risks of noncompliance with US regulations. In the US, sunscreen is classified by the Food and Drug Administration as an over-the-counter drug, making it subject to stricter regulations than cosmetics. Yet, according to industry insiders, under the current tariff framework, which exempts imported pharmaceuticals from "reciprocal" tariff measures, not all Korean over-the-counter sun care products qualify for the exemption. Depending on the product type, some sunscreen products are still classified as cosmetics and remain subject to standard import tariffs. 'Even if additional tariffs are imposed, sales are unlikely to decline,' the official noted, pointing out that Korean products have established a reputation for quality and reliability among consumers. In a report released by Samsung Securities, US-bound Korean cosmetics exports have showed continued growth, rising 46 percent on-year in 2023 and 52 percent the following year. Korean sun care products alone are projected to post a 43 percent on-year surge in US e-commerce sales this year, the report stated. According to the US International Trade Commission last year, Korean cosmetics exports to the US reached $1.71 billion, a figure surpassing long-standing beauty powerhouse France, which recorded $1.26 billion in exports. As demand for Korean sunscreens heats up, manufacturers are shifting into overdrive. Kolmar Korea, an original design manufacturer responsible for producing the majority of Korean sunscreen products, plans to double its sunscreen and skin care production to 300 million units by ramping up operations at its US plants. It saw an 88 percent on-year surge in US-bound over-the-counter sunscreen products last year. Another major Korean original design manufacturer, Cosmax projected that its sunscreen production at facilities in both Korea and the US will more than triple this year compared to last, as four times as many clients plan to enter the over-the-counter sunscreen market. 'With an integrated collaboration system between our US subsidiary and Korean headquarters, we are meeting growing client demand through a dedicated OTC division,' a Cosmax official said. Meanwhile, Korea's No. 1 cosmetics company Amorepacific is weighing the possibility of building its own manufacturing facilities in the US. Recently, CEO Kim Seung-hwan told Bloomberg TV that the company plans to invest in logistics and modular manufacturing infrastructure in the United States within the next three to five years.
Korea Herald
17-04-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
Korean sunscreen flying off US shelves amid tariff fears
Korean giants Kolmar, Cosmax expand sunscreen production in US, aiming to navigate FDA rules, minimize tariff risks Amid the US government's tariff-fueled standoff with the rest of the world, some Americans appear to be stockpiling imported goods in anticipation of looming price hikes. Among the more unlikely items flying off the shelves are Korean-made sunscreen brands, which have quietly built a cult following in the United States. According to a report last week by The Washington Post, Korean sunscreen ranks among the most hoarded consumer goods amid tariff fears, based on data gleaned from social media posts and online message boards. Lauding Korean sunscreen for superior performance, the paper highlighted three standout qualities: reliable UV protection, lightweight textures and compatibility with layered cosmetics. The article even suggests Korean sunscreen formulations make their American counterparts seem about as good as scrambled eggs for preventing sun damage. 'Looming tariff measures on Korean imports appear to have nudged American consumers to stockpile Korean sunscreens, which are regarded as superior in both quality and affordability compared to their US counterparts,' said an industry official. Another concern driving American consumers' panic buying stems from Korean brands like Skin1004 and Beauty of Joseon pulling products from the US market earlier this year. The move was part of an effort to reformulate and therefore reduce long-term risks of noncompliance with US regulations. In the US, sunscreen is classified by the Food and Drug Administration as an over-the-counter drug, making it subject to stricter regulations than cosmetics. Yet, according to industry insiders, under the current tariff framework, which exempts imported pharmaceuticals from "reciprocal" tariff measures, not all Korean over-the-counter sun care products qualify for the exemption. Depending on the product type, some sunscreen products are still classified as cosmetics and remain subject to standard import tariffs. 'Even if additional tariffs are imposed, sales are unlikely to decline,' the official noted, pointing out that Korean products have established a reputation for quality and reliability among consumers. In a report released by Samsung Securities, US-bound Korean cosmetics exports have showed continued growth, rising 46 percent on-year in 2023 and 52 percent the following year. Korean sun care products alone are projected to post a 43 percent on-year surge in US e-commerce sales this year, the report stated. According to the US International Trade Commission last year, Korean cosmetics exports to the US reached $1.71 billion, a figure surpassing long-standing beauty powerhouse France, which recorded $1.26 billion in exports. As demand for Korean sunscreens heats up, manufacturers are shifting into overdrive. Kolmar Korea, an original design manufacturer responsible for producing the majority of Korean sunscreen products, plans to double its sunscreen and skin care production to 300 million units by ramping up operations at its US plants. It saw an 88 percent on-year surge in US-bound over-the-counter sunscreen products last year. Another major Korean original design manufacturer, Cosmax projected that its sunscreen production at facilities in both Korea and the US will more than triple this year compared to last, as four times as many clients plan to enter the over-the-counter sunscreen market. 'With an integrated collaboration system between our US subsidiary and Korean headquarters, we are meeting growing client demand through a dedicated OTC division,' a Cosmax official said. Meanwhile, Korea's No. 1 cosmetics company Amorepacific is weighing the possibility of building its own manufacturing facilities in the US. Recently, CEO Kim Seung-hwan told Bloomberg TV that the company plans to invest in logistics and modular manufacturing infrastructure in the United States within the next three to five years.
