The holiday countdown is on. Ulta Beauty got things underway last week at its Unwrapping Joy event for more than 100 brand partners, beauty press, and content creators in New York City. “The beauty retailer is going full throttle into the season with a bevy of newness and a mega-partnership with the cinematic release of Wicked,” writes CEW reporter Faye Brookman, in our special report. And when it comes to what’s hot right now, the CEW Product Watch September 2024 has dropped. Don’t miss our guide to the beauty newcomers of note, including cult revivals, collector’s editions, and a cream that costs more per ounce than platinum.

Also at CEW, we shine the spotlight on Harris Williams’ 2024 Annual Health & Beauty Survey. According to the survey, nearly 90% of consumers are spending the same (or more) on beauty and personal care, in comparison with 2023. In addition, we unpack NielsenIQ’s Mid-Year Review of Trends and Performance. “Beauty categories are under pacing 2023 growth with the exception of the fragrance and bath/shower categories,” writes CEW reporter Melissa Hago. “Total beauty and personal care is up 5.5% in dollar sales versus a year ago, a marked slowdown from 2023’s full year performance of 11.1% dollar growth.”

In executive news, The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. has announced that Mark Loomis, Group President, North America, will be retiring at the end of the fiscal year 2023. Loomis will be succeeded by Tara Simon, who will become President, North America, and Amber English, who will be President, Digital and Online, North America, from January 1, 2025. “As we embark on the next phase of growth for North America, Tara and Amber bring incredible experience that make them uniquely well-suited to capture the promise of this evolving market while advancing our strategy and ambitions,” said Fabrizio Freda, President and Chief Executive Officer. Meanwhile, Mark Curry, co-founder of The Inkey List, has been named the brand’s new CEO. He takes over the role from Stephanie Davis Michelman.

In investment updates, California Naturals is expanding its retail network with a new CVS partnership, as it prepares to close its Series A funding round. As of today, the clean hair care range will be available at 2,000 CVS locations, with plans to increase this to 5,000 by January.

Birkenstock is stepping out into foot care, to mark its 250th anniversary. A range of 100% natural, German-made products will drop exclusively at the footwear brand’s website and selected retail partners. “Our collection will speak to individuals who prioritize self-care and mindful living and to the passionate Birkenstock fan who is already familiar with the brand’s values and is seeking products that complement their lifestyle choices,” commented Oliver Reichert, Birkenstock’s CEO.

Catch up on these and other stories at the links below.

Ulta Beauty Unwraps Joy. CEW reports on the special event for brand partners, beauty press, and content creators that took place in New York City last week.

The CEW Product Watch September 2024 Is Here. Don’t miss our guide to the beauty newcomers of note, including cult revivals, collector’s editions, and a cream that costs more per ounce than platinum.

Harris Williams’ 2024 Annual Health & Beauty Reveals Top Consumer Concerns. CEW spotlights some of its key findings. (CEW)

NielsenIQ: A Mid-Year Review of Trends and Performance. CEW reports on the recent report, which reveals that beauty categories are under pacing 2023 growth with the exception of the fragrance and bath/shower categories. (CEW)

All Change At The Estée Lauder Companies’ North American Division. Mark Loomis, Group President, North America, is to retire. Tara Simon will become President, North America, and Amber English, will take on the role of President, Digital and Online, North America. (THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES)

The Estee Lauder Cos. Announces Executive Moves. The skin care brand’s cofounder will take over at the helm from Stephanie Davis Michelman. (WWD)

California Naturals Enters CVS. The company is growing its retail network as it prepares to close its Series A funding round. (BEAUTY INDEPENDENT) 

Birkenstock Drops Foot Care. The company is launching six, German-made products, in celebration of its 250th anniversary. (BEAUTY NEWS DAILY)

kdc/one Acquires Laffon S.r.l. The Italian company is renowned for make-up formulation, manufacturing and packaging. (BEAUTY PACKAGING)

Groupe Rocher Sells Ploërmel Production Site In France. The new owner, Arcade Beauty, will manufacture scents for Groupe Rocher on the site for at least five years. (HAPPI)

Laneige Names BTS’s Jin Its First Male Brand Ambassador. The Korean boyband singer will star in a campaign for its Cream Skin collection. (COSMETICS BUSINESS)

Teyonah Parris Debuts Hair Product Range. The actress is launching a range of hair extensions for naturally curly, kinky, and coiled Black hair. (BUSINESS OF FASHION)