The Value of Beauty

This report explores the economic and societal impact of the beauty and personal care industry and its value chain in the EU27.

The beauty and personal care sector is deeply embedded in European citizens’ lives, providing valuable products and services that consumers use every day. Despite that, there is limited evidence demonstrating the sector’s economic and social contribution in the EU27 and highlighting the range of benefits supported by its sophisticated value chain. This report sheds light on that evidence gap to help policymakers navigate this complex landscape and better equip them to assess the impact of policies on the sector’s value chain.

Consumer expenditure on beauty and personal care supported a €180 billion contribution to EU27 GDP through all impact channels and €71 billion in tax receipts in 2023. Its total GDP contribution is equivalent to the combined GDP of Croatia, Slovenia, and Estonia. Our research underscores that the sector’s footprint rivals some of the EU’s most prized industries.

This report also explores the sector’s track record in terms of R&D, analysing expenditure and recruitment patterns. In addition, it discusses social and environmental sustainability initiatives undertaken by beauty and personal care companies that are impacting consumers in the EU27.