We knew the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic would be bad, but the horror story may be only beginning. LVMH, L’Oréal and other multinationals reported grim results for the most recently concluded quarters and fiscal years. As we went to press, The Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) announced fiscal year 2020 sales declined 4%. ELC is regrouping, focusing on digital and cutting up to 2,000 jobs primarily in North America and Europe.

Many other companies are formulating strategies or announcing plans to try to limit the carnage, but it will take years to undo the damage caused by COVID-19. What’s worse, no one is quite sure what’s around the corner as temperatures drop, and cold and flu season hits the Northern Hemisphere.

One thing is certain, traditional retail is on the canvas and digital is the new champion with consumers around the world who remain wary of venturing out. Despite all the uncertainty, marketers are moving ahead with launches that feature novel ingredients that promise real skin caring results. Melissa Meisel highlights many of these introductions in her article this month.

As beauty is reeling, home care is dealing with a surge in sales as consumers remain focused on cleaning and disinfecting their homes. Companies like Clorox and Procter & Gamble reported good results in the quarter and year-end fiscal 2020.

Surfactant suppliers say demand remains strong for many materials as consumers stock up on personal cleaners, hard surface cleansers and laundry care products. A list of new raw materials follows the feature this month.

Finally, when consumers want the world to just go away, they’re lighting candles and spritzing sprays. Christine Esposito provides an update on the latest introductions in the fast-growing home fragrance category.

We hope you enjoy this edition of Happi. As always, we welcome your comments and suggestions. Stay safe!

Tom Branna
VP/Editorial Director
[email protected]