France's natural cosmetics market is attracting international investment from parties eager to be part of one of the fastest-growing organic beauty markets in Europe, according to industry consultancy Organic Monitor.
The country is one of the most dynamic markets in Europe with an annual growth exceeding 40% over the last two years and the sector is set to progress further for 2007.
Environmental certification group Ecocert report that nearly 3,500 natural cosmetic products were certified in France in 2006, up nearly 80% over 2005.
Foreign investors are focusing on France because of its reputation of high quality in cosmetic products, and because it offers a strategic gateway into the €1 billion European organic cosmetics markets, serving neighbouring countries such as Germany, Italy, Spain or the UK.
The Brazilian company Natura, the Japanese NP Corporation and Swiss based Weleda have all recently invested in manufacturing facilities or research and design centres in France.