Tis the season ....
The forecasts for prestige beauty holiday shopping in 2024 are generally positive, with several key trends and predictions:
Overall Growth and Consumer Sentiment
Prestige beauty sales are expected to continue their strong performance during the 2024 holiday season. From January through September 2024, the U.S. prestige beauty market grew by 7% to $22.8 billion, outpacing mass market sales which increased by 2%. This trend is likely to continue into the holiday season. Consumer sentiment for holiday shopping has improved compared to the past two years. Holiday shoppers plan to spend an average of 2% more than last year, with Black Friday hitting a four-year high in expectations for the best holiday deals.
Fragrance
Prestige fragrance is positioned as the fastest-growing category in 2024, with year-over-year sales increasing by 14% through September. The holiday season is particularly crucial for fragrances, traditionally accounting for over 40% of annual sales in both prestige and mass channels.
Makeup
Makeup, the largest category within the prestige segment, grew by 5% through September. Lip products and blush are expected to be strong performers during the holiday season.
Hair Care
The prestige hair category has shown significant growth, with dollar sales up 8% through September. Hair wellness products and styling items are expected to be popular gift choices
Consumer Behavior and Demographics
29% of shoppers plan to purchase beauty products as gifts this year, slightly up from 2023. Notably, 41% of households with children intend to buy beauty products, which is 11 percentage points higher than overall intentions. Higher-income households with children under 18 are showing significant increases in prestige beauty spending, indicating that parents are indulging Gen Alpha with these products.
E-commerce and Discounting
Online sales are expected to play a significant role, with Adobe Digital Insights predicting a record $240.8 billion in online sales between November 1 and December 31 across all retail categories. Discounts are anticipated to be around 30% off listed prices across brands, similar to the 2023 season. These promotions are expected to have a strong impact on consumer behavior, potentially contributing between $2 billion and $3 billion in online spending.
The prestige beauty industry is poised for a strong holiday season in 2024, driven by growth in fragrance, makeup, and hair care categories. The influence of Gen Alpha, increased spending by households with children, and the continued strength of e-commerce are expected to be key factors in driving sales during this period.
Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season. Happy shopping!
True Beauty Ventures Cristina Nuñez #beautyinvesting