The future of the Swiss cosmetics industry: expertise and sustainability as the keys to success

The Swiss cosmetics industry is at a critical crossroads. To maintain and expand its global leadership position, it must rely on three key pillars: the promotion of excellent professionals, research and development of innovative new products, and a commitment to sustainability.

A skilled workforce as the backbone

Specialists are unquestionably the foundation of success and innovation in the cosmetics industry. Swiss universities are already making an important contribution to the education of experts who apply their knowledge to improve the quality and efficacy of cosmetic products. Programmes such as those at the Institute of Food and Beverage Innovation demonstrate how science can be used within the cosmetics industry to develop the next generation of products that are both effective and safe for consumers and the environment.

Maintaining the power of innovation

Maintaining the power of innovation is of crucial importance for the Swiss cosmetics industry. Our German sister association has also given this some consideration and published the IKW future study "Echt ist das neue Schön" (Authentic is the new beautiful), which also focuses on market needs. According to the report, people are increasingly seeking authentic and honest products. This trend provides Switzerland, in particular, with its international image, with a unique opportunity to enter new market segments through innovative product development approaches that emphasise authenticity and transparency.

Sustainability: An imperative

Sustainability is a top priority for the SKW and its members, both nationally and internation-ally. Environmental protection is no longer considered a downstream issue (e.g. wastewater treatment and disposal) but rather an upstream one. Specifically: no use of substances that are harmful to people or the environment, recyclable packaging, CO2-neutral production and much more.

But sustainability is not just about environmental and energy challenges; it is also about social responsibility, informed consumers, a robust industry and stable employment.