Hair removal is now quicker and easier
MMR, August 27, 2007
NEW YORK — Hair removal is not always an easy process, sometimes involving discomfort and usually requiring a substantial investment of time, as well. As a result, depilatory makers have focused on developing products that minimize discomfort and deliver convenience and ease of use.
Del Laboratories Inc.’s Sally Hansen brand, the category leader, offers a comprehensive line of products that offer different removal methods–waxes, lotions and creams–as well as bleaches to lighten hair and medicated post-removal products to soothe redness and bumps. The brand’s success is reflected in its nearly 30% share of category sales and a 4% sales growth rate that exceeds the total category’s 1.1% expansion, according to Information Resources Inc. (IRI) (based on sales through food, drug and discount stores–excluding Wal-Mart Stores Inc.–for the 52 weeks ended June 17).
Another brand showing strong growth is Bikini Zone from CCA Industries Inc., which posted a 49% jump in revenues as reported by IRI. According to president and chief operating officer Dunnan Edell, the company’s business model focuses on developing unique products. “We pool the creative experience and intelligence of our principles and marketing team to grow our brands organically,” he explains.
In recent years men’s depilatories have gained traction as part of the general growth of the men’s grooming business. Del’s Hansen for Men collection includes a hair remover lotion and hair removal strips in addition to other grooming aids. The scale of the men’s segment is suggested by the fact that Nair for Men from Church & Dwight Co. has become the No. 7 brand in the category.
Meanwhile, LifeSource Group, which makes the No. 4 brand, Nads (formerlyAussie Nads in the U.S.), expanded its offerings last year, introducing Naughty Nads, a playfully sexy approach to waxing the bikini area.
Depilatories DOLLAR SALES UNIT VOLUME
$103.6 mil. 17.9 mil.
( 1.1%) * (-2.7%) *
Percent Change Percent Change
vs. vs.
Prior 12 Months Prior 12 Months
For 52 Weeks Supermarkets Supermarkets
Ending 6/17/07 1% -3.4%
Drug Stores Drug Stores
-0.1% -4.1%
Top Brands Dollar Unit
Sales Volume
1. Sally Hansen $31.1 mil. 5.1 mil.
2