Integration explores Health & Beauty industry topics with experts
NEWS
Integration explores Health & Beauty industry topics with experts
Integration Consulting recently took part in the UK The Health & Beauty Association’s annual conference, where Jamie Gale moderated a lively panel discussion. Together with industry experts Janette Block (Seaband), Mandy Willmore (Powermed) and Viviana Moreno (Colgate-Palmolive), the panel discussed issues that are top-of-mind for executives in the health & beauty (H&B) sector, with four points found to be particularly relevant for companies:
![2024_05_20_Return to the annual Health & Beauty Association conference (3)](https://integrationconsulting.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/2024_05_20_Return-to-the-annual-Health-Beauty-Association-conference-3-500x375.jpeg)
Artificial Intelligence: Executives would be wise to realize that AI is here & now, both in its applications and immediate benefits. More than just boosting efficiency, H&B companies are already leveraging it in areas such as sales force effectiveness, planning and even brand building. Organizations have the opportunity to look past the hype and practically use proven AI tactics to get a step ahead.
People: Despite any perceived AI disruptions, one thing remains clear: humans do business with humans. Reinforced by greater attention to mental health across the board, human elements such as connection, interaction, diversity and inclusion remain key for businesses to succeed – from strategy to commercial planning or that essential link to clients and customers. As such, it seems unwise to “divest” or pivot away from a people-centered approach to business.
Sustainability: The market is evolving in its thinking and approach to this topic. Businesses are moving beyond a mere recycling approach and towards an end-to-end zero-waste mentality together with customers. For H&B companies, sustainability is becoming increasingly relevant. While still a hot topic for consumers, at the shelf it is being increasingly balanced with other key considerations such as the rising cost of living as well as demands for convenience and accessibility.
Cost of living: Related to the last point, companies are still struggling to adequately respond to shifts in consumer behavior stemming from the persistent inflationary environment. While the H&B segment (and especially over-the-counter) remains resilient, costs are up. In personal care, this has led consumers to purchase items in lower volumes and constantly seek promotions. Businesses will need to keep investing in efforts to strategically and practically respond in the near future to ensure consistent revenue and growth.
In an interactive session, Integration also mapped the priorities that are top of mind for H&B executives (based on a live survey that the Integration team ran with participants during the panel).
Integration thanks The Health & Beauty Association for the invitation, as well as all of those in attendance for their participation and the lively exchange.
![2024_05_20_Return to the annual Health & Beauty Association conference (1)](https://integrationconsulting.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/2024_05_20_Return-to-the-annual-Health-Beauty-Association-conference-1-500x375.jpeg)
- On 11 June 2024