1. Introduction
Why study Perfume, Cosmetic and Toiletry industry? The answer is straightforward (Perfumes, Cosmetics, and Other Toilet Preparations, 2003 Perfumes, Cosmetics, and Other Toilet Preparations, Encyclopedia of American Industries, third ed., vol. 2. Gale Group, 2001 (SICs: 2844) (2003) Retrieved on March 12, 2003; from http://galenet.galegroup.com/servlet/BCRC?c=1&cind=2844+-+Perfumes%2C+Cosmetics+and+Other+Toilet+Preparations&ste=85&docNum=I2501400183&bConts=16171&mode=i&tab=1024&icd=2844&iType=sic&vrsn=2.0&tbst=tsIS&srchtp=ind&rcd=sic&locID=clic_stthomas.Perfumes, Cosmetics, and Other Toilet Preparations, 2003). It is a significantly vital industry not necessarily in terms of its contribution to global GDP but by its striking influence on the colorful social lives of humans globally. The use of cosmetics, fragrances, and personal care products can be traced back to ancient times as early as Egyptian, Greek, and Roman eras. Here are some examples from history. Neanderthal man painted his face with reds, browns, and yellows derived from clay, mud, and arsenic. Bones were used to curl hair. Makeup, tattoos, and adornments conveyed necessary social information. Galen, an ancient Greek physician, invented cold cream. The Romans used oil-based perfumes on their bodies, in their baths and fountains, and applied them to their weapons. Crusaders of the 13th century brought fragrances back to Europe from the Far East. The perfumes developed during the 16th century were powders or gelatinous pastes. Natural perfumes were made from a variety of ingredients containing aroma.
It will be of interest and value to get familiar with the characteristics and background of this industry. Financial and SWOT analyses can provide additional insights to the industry. Probing current conditions and trends and also the level of sophistication in the deployment of technology and innovations would unfold some misconceptions about the industry. The impacts of globalization...