Latest news with #perfumery
France 24
11 hours ago
- Business
- France 24
Who makes laundry smell nice? Meet the professional 'noses'
These busy heroes of the world of smells and aromas shape the connection millions of consumers have with everyday items. While at high-end perfume labels, olfactory artists create scents for luxury body sprays, Symrise's experts work on everyday products that might range from mint-flavoured toothpaste to barbeque chips. Smell, a powerful sense that can trigger emotions and memories, and aroma often decide which food or beverage, cleaning or personal hygiene product ends up in the shopping cart. At Symrise's headquarters in Holzminden, a quiet town south of Hanover, each day at the company's in-house perfumery school begins the same way: sniffing out scents from dozens of tiny bottles while blindfolded. "It's just like tuning a musical instrument before you play," said Alicia De Benito Cassado, a 32-year-old former professional pianist from Spain. Her career switch into scent development was a natural step: she made her own perfumes as a teenager to match the poetry and music that she wrote. "For me, not everything has to smell good," she said. "The horror of smell also helps us discover ourselves." But commercial clients demand something different, De Benito Cassado added. "In the end, we need to create scents that are strong, beautiful, powerful -- and affordable." Professional sniffers Being a "nose" is a full-time job and comes with a three-year training programme. The smell of a fabric softener can be composed of 80 compounds, far more than in a premium body perfume, and the best noses can make out over 1,000 different odours while blindfolded. Being able to break down odours into their chemical components is key. "As a kid, I just smelled jasmine or gardenia as flowers," he said. "Now, I recognise the chemicals: it's a blend of many elements." Students weigh ingredients down to the milligramme, mix, smell, and start over, often by replicating existing smells to understand their structure and then innovate from there. "When developing perfume, it is very important that several people smell it," said 56-year-old master perfumer Marc vom Ende, head of the school. "We all perceive smell differently." 'Nose has the final say' Pleasant smells cannot come at any cost, and the rules of the game change over time. Lilial, a chemical once prized for its floral and sweet Lily-of-the-Valley notes, has been banned in the European Union since 2022 over fears it can cause skin irritation and damage the reproductive system. Fragrances applied directly to the body have stricter regulations than detergents, said 27-year-old South African trainee Attiya Setai. "We're more restricted in raw materials and must replace banned ingredients with new compliant ones," she said. Tastes also vary across global markets, with Shangyun pointing to the example of Chinese shampoos that sell well with a young clientele there but would struggle in Europe. "Something old-fashioned in one country can be new elsewhere," he said. Cost also enters the equation. Symrise extracts aromatic compounds from wood resin, a by-product of the paper industry, in a move "that makes both economic and environmental sense", said vom Ende. It is hard to be a nose. About 500 perfumers work in the industry and 80 of them at Symrise, which has a workforce of 13,000. The company markets about 30,000 products to clients ranging from confectioners to pet food manufacturers and suncream makers. Symrise's competitors include DSM-Firmenich, headquartered in both Switzerland and the Netherlands, as well as Givaudan, another Swiss firm. Artificial intelligence increasingly plays a role, with computer programmes predicting which fragrances will hit the mark. Still, the machines cannot -- yet -- smell, even if they can understand speech and read text.
Khaleej Times
5 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE's perfume industry to hit $1.7 billion by 2033
The UAE — long recognised as a hub of perfumery in the Arab world — is poised to elevate its olfactory legacy to new heights. According to a recent report by a global management consulting firm, the UAE perfume market is expected to surge from $748.9 million (Dh2.75 billion) in 2024 to $1.72 billion (Dh6.3 billion) by 2033, at a compound annual growth rate of 9.22 per cent. IMARC Group noted this robust growth is being driven by a confluence of factors: 'The enduring popularity of oriental fragrances, a digitally savvy new generation of consumers, luxury tourism, and an increasing focus on sustainability and innovation.' But as the UAE's perfume sector strides towards a billion-dollar future, it remains grounded in the elements that first set it apart: craftsmanship, storytelling, and an unmatched sense of scent. With Dubai continuing to evolve as a global luxury capital, fragrance has become a vital expression of identity, culture, and status. 'While international brands have firmly established their presence in the Arabian Peninsula starting with the UAE, traditional oriental fragrances continue to be the heart of the region's olfactory identity — highly sought after not only by locals but also by Western consumers,' said Abdulla Ajmal, CEO of Ajmal Group. From its humble roots, beginning with Dh25 and the vision of late founder Haji Ajmal Ali, Ajmal Perfumes has grown into a regional empire and global player. The company opened its first Dubai store in 1976 and continues to innovate while holding fast to its heritage. 'The future of fragrance retail lies in balance. While nothing will ever fully replace the sensory richness of walking into our perfume stores, convenience-first consumers are rewriting how luxury is accessed,' said Ajmal, the founder's grandson. 'Digital innovation, personalised experiences, and strategic sampling have redefined how people explore and purchase perfumes, paving the way for a more accessible and experiential online fragrance market.' Ajmal pointed out that consumers still prefer in-store purchases for items like agarwood chips and Dahn Al Oud oils, but spray perfumes are increasingly bought online, especially for repeat purchases. Other scent designers also highlighted that for local perfumers today, one of the key challenges is standing out in a fast-paced, trend-driven digital landscape. 'With consumers in Dubai becoming more convenience-focused and digitally native, it's crucial to capture their attention quickly and meaningfully. But that's also where the opportunity lies — by embracing e-commerce, storytelling, and social media, local brands can build direct, authentic connections with niche audiences. Success now depends on being agile, innovative, and deeply in tune with both global trends and local cultural preferences, all while staying true to your brand's identity,' said Munira Rahman, chief marketing officer, director, and brand ambassador of Al Haramain Perfumes. Tradition and trend While global brands remain influential, UAE-based companies are innovating with distinctly local flavours. Homegrown brand Enliven Perfumes, for instance, is turning to a hybrid of tradition and trend. 'As UAE's homegrown perfume brand, we have looked into the needs of the younger GenX and their tastes. We found that they want something new that has the local Arab touch – such as Oudh-based perfumes – but it must smell modern,' said Khandaker Hashibuzzaman, managing director at Enliven Perfumes. 'We maintain a higher level of concentrate — at least three times higher than the average perfume available in the market — so that they last at least 18–24 hours,' he added. With new generations seeking not just scents, but stories behind them, social media has become the new scent strip. 'Fragrances come with stories and this needs to be communicated to the consumers loud and clear… We need more interesting stories behind perfume notes — that will go a long way in getting customer loyalty,' added Hashibuzzaman. 'Sustainability is gaining popularity in business activities. It is important to be trendy and if one could build in sustainability, then the story gets interesting to the customers.' Niche is the new normal Meanwhile, brands like Ahmed Al Maghribi Perfumes are curating unique, limited-edition offerings to cater to young, experience-driven shoppers. 'Ahmed Al Maghribi Perfumes is embracing this shift by creating modern, niche collections that reflect a fusion of Emirati heritage and contemporary taste,' said Kafeel Ahmed Gudekar, CEO and founder of the brand. 'We partner with regional influencers and reviewers to build trust and connect with digital-native audiences. We offer personalised gifting options and exclusive lines that feel bespoke and culturally relevant.' Culture meets commerce With Dubai welcoming more than 17 million visitors in 2023, the synergy between tourism, luxury retail, and perfume culture is stronger than ever. The sensory appeal of the UAE's fragrance offerings often becomes a tangible souvenir for travellers seeking an immersive experience. According to Euromonitor, the GCC region's appetite for premium and niche scents has grown significantly over the past five years, with the UAE leading the charge. The rise of experiential perfume bars, custom blending studios, and AI-powered scent consultations across the Emirates signals a new phase in fragrance retail — where legacy meets lifestyle. Dubai Duty Free recently announced that half-year sales posted a 5.34 per cent year-on-year increase, with turnover reaching Dh4.118 billion for the first six months of 2025. Perfumes, beverages, cigarettes and tobacco, gold, and confectionery retained the top five category positions. Perfume sales reached Dh744.24 million, contributing 18 per cent of total revenue and showing an increase of five per cent over the same period last year. Sharon Beecham, senior vice-president — purchasing at Dubai Duty Free, said: 'The key drivers in fragrances growth are the niche perfumes, the Dubai Duty Free or Travel Retail exclusive products and the strong new launches. We will continue to expand the offer of niche fragrances, which are already showing a double-digit growth. In partnership with the top perfume brands we have plans for the second half of this year and for 2026, to launch new exclusive products and activate tactical promotions.'
News24
15-07-2025
- Business
- News24
Liomi Perfume founder talks running a fragrance business
A visionary leader in the realm of fragrance, this public relations graduate is celebrated for her ability to craft scents that evoke emotion and elevate everyday experiences. As the founder and creative force of Liomi Perfume, Mirriam Kgole has garnered widespread acclaim and awards for her luxurious perfumes. With a background and passion for perfumery, she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey a few years ago, launching her line of exquisite perfumes that quickly became synonymous with sophistication and allure. Her dedication to quality and innovation earned her the prestigious Bevcan Nampak Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2016, the same year she launched her business, which solidified her reputation as a trailblazer in the industry. In response to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Mirriam demonstrated remarkable resilience and foresight by expanding her brand's offerings to include artisanal candles, elegant diffusers and invigorating room mists. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Liomi Luxury Scents (@liomi_perfume) Committed to sustainability and ethical practices, she sources only the finest natural ingredients for her products, ensuring each fragrance tells a story of craftsmanship and care. Beyond her entrepreneurial pursuits, Mirriam is a passionate advocate for women in business. As Liomi Perfume continues to flourish, this businesswoman remains dedicated to pushing boundaries and redefining the art of fragrance, promising a future filled with innovation, elegance and unforgettable sensory experiences. 'As an entrepreneur, I would like to be remembered as a person who tried to make the fragrance industry a better place and break stereotypes that luxury scents can only be acquired abroad and at a ridiculous price. At home, I simply want to be remembered as a person who loved deeply and cultivated meaningful relationships with my loved ones,' she says.
Yahoo
14-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
COSMETIC 360 WILL BE HELD ON OCTOBER 15-16 2025 UNDER THIS YEAR'S MOTTO: "PREDICTIONS"
PARIS, July 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The COSMETIC 360 international trade show, the world's leading event for innovations and trends in the perfumery and cosmetics industry, will open the way to the future in Paris at the Carrousel du Louvre on October 15-16, 2025, with the overarching theme: PREDICTIONS. PREDICTIONS for a new revolution in science, industrial processes, performance optimization and impact management for the next generation of cosmetics, in a world that is about to change dramatically. Hosted by COSMETIC VALLEY, the world's leading perfumery and cosmetics network and coordinator of the French industry for 30 years, this 11th edition will bring together 250 exhibitors from 23 countries. Over 5,000 international decision-makers from 70 countries are expected to attend. The 11th edition of COSMETIC 360 - time to predict the future of cosmetics In order to develop new strategies, the industry and its players are empowered with unprecedented predictive engineering to anticipate and transform, which COSMETIC 360 will be exploiting to the full this year: "The power of prediction, which goes far beyond trends, has already and will have a profound impact on the cosmetics sector and offering" says Franckie Béchereau, Managing Director of COSMETIC 360. The exploration of data and AI, the new spirit of creation, as well as the foresight of tomorrow's companies, will lead to COSMETIC 360 imagining and transmitting a cosmetics scene in tune with change: "This will be the first time we've gone so far in the vision of the future at COSMETIC 360, for pioneering leadership in innovation". In 2025, COSMETIC360's Predictions theme will focus on: 6 prospective animation zones 1 conference program 1 Innovation Track dedicated to meetings with exhibitors involved in the year's theme 1 Special mention of the jury for the COSMETIC 360 Awards "The Predictions theme has an exciting duality. First of all, we need to predict so that we can act now to innovate and improve cosmetic solutions. Secondly, we need predict for tomorrow, by projecting the transformation of the role of cosmetics in our lifestyles" emphasizes Franckie Béchereau, General Manager of COSMETIC 360. The show will also feature a Research zone, a village of 36 innovative start-ups, and an OEM zone dedicated to industrial demonstrations. "PREDICTIONS" CONFERENCES Conferences will offer a visionary panorama of the technologies transforming the industry: predictive formulation, AI, environmental impact simulation, expectation detection, digital twins, mechanochemistry, sensor neurons... The conferences will be structured into 6 chapters: AI, ingredients, formulation, packaging, process, testing. This program reflects a strong conviction: "The COSMETIC 360 audiences will be nourished by the brand-new knowledge and very concrete applications offered by predictability" adds Frankie Béchereau. COSMETIC 360, THE HEART OF GLOBAL COSMETICS INNOVATION Every year, COSMETIC 360 stands out for its innovative technologies, processes, products and services. Celebrating its 11th anniversary in 2025, this not-to-be-missed trade show brings together decision-makers and influencers from the global cosmetics industry to discuss raw materials, formulations, packaging, testing and analysis, finished products, logistics, equipment and distribution. "Our trade show has established itself as a showcase for the industry's incredible progress, and COSMETIC 360 is a strong advocate of the values of cosmetics in the 21 st century: universal usefulness, human well-being, responsibility towards the living world, creative freedom and scientific progress" concludes Franckie Béchereau, General Manager of COSMETIC 360. Find out more about COSMETIC VALLEY, the show organizer: Find out more about COSMETIC 360: Photo - - Press contact: Agence BURSONAdrien Alves - Lenglen - View original content: SOURCE COSMETIC 360 Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Zawya
09-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Shama Perfumes unveils Flagship Boutique in Abu Dhabi, honoring legacy in luxury fragrance
Abu Dhabi, UAE: Shama Perfumes proudly announces the grand opening of its newest flagship boutique in Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi, its first in the UAE and third across the GCC, following acclaimed launches in Oman and Qatar. This latest milestone brings the brand's legacy of craftsmanship and heritage-rich perfumery to the heart of UAE's capital. Set in an ambiance inspired by the artistry of fine perfumery, the premium boutique's unveiling event offered guests a sensory experience, featuring a curated tea station, guided scent styling and live box painting by a featured artist. Founded in Mumbai, Shama Perfumes is a heritage fragrance house now in its third generation of family stewardship. Rooted in heritage and driven by a heartfelt vision, Mr. Salim Umar Shama - the second-generation custodian of Shama Perfumes - has long been the quiet force behind the brand's thriving legacy and reputation. With over five decades steeped into traditional Indian perfumery, Shama blends timeless techniques with modern Arabian elegance, delivering handcrafted oils, perfumes, and ouds that resonate with authenticity, luxury, and cultural depth. As Shama Perfumes continues to embody his legacy of sincerity and service, his son, Mr. Salman Salim Shama, carries forward the vision to honour the values instilled by his father. 'Opening our doors in Abu Dhabi is more than expansion,' said Salman Shama, Managing Director of Shama Perfumes. ' It's a milestone that reflects our deep respect for this region's appreciation of the craftsmanship for highest quality of handpicked and curated Oudh and perfumes.' The new Marina Mall boutique is designed to offer more than retail, it is a fully immersive olfactory experience. With a boutique aesthetic inspired by regional architecture and Indian artistry, the space extends a holistic indulgence such as personalised scent consultations, bespoke gifting rooms, traditional calligraphy, and elegant packaging using heritage fabrics and tassels. With its expansion into Abu Dhabi, Shama strengthens its presence across the GCC, offering the modern Arab consumer a scent journey rooted in tradition and elevated by sophistication. ' The Gulf is where fragrance is not just worn, but lived. Shama belongs here and we are here to stay,' added Salman Shama. This boutique reinforces the brand's vision of preserving and celebrating the art of traditional perfumery through scents that embody heritage, craftsmanship, and elegance. Some of their iconic and key collections like Dehn Al Oud, the Royal Mirage Collection, Al Jild, Khashab Al Oud and more are available at the new store. At a time when mass-produced, synthetic scents dominate the market, Shama stands apart by honoring the art of handmade oils, rare ouds, and purposeful storytelling. About Shama Perfumes: Founded in 1977 in Bombay, India, Shama Perfumes is a heritage fragrance house built on the foundations of tradition, craftsmanship, and storytelling. A family-run business now in its third generation, Shama has preserved the art of Indian perfumery while evolving into a premium fragrance brand catering to a discerning global audience. Specializing in handcrafted perfume oils, Dehn Al Oud, oud chips, and fine fragrances, Shama is known for its use of premium natural ingredients, meticulous blending techniques, and attention to detail - from scent creation to packaging. With flagship stores now open in Muscat (Royal Opera House), Doha (Gewan Island, Crystal Walk), and most recently Abu Dhabi (Marina Mall), the brand continues to expand its presence across the GCC while staying rooted in its Indian origins. Today, Shama Perfumes stands as a bridge between Indian heritage and Arabian elegance, offering more than fragrance - a legacy wrapped in scent.
