Pure Beauty’s Editor finds out what goes on behind the scenes of the Cosmetic & Perfumery Retailers Association and what’s driven its 30-year success
Copra was created over 30 years ago by beauty buyers who saw a benefit in like-minded people discussing their industry. Today, the association has over 20 of the UK’s leading beauty retailers, including large multiples, department stores, independents and e-tailers. It provides a business focus for retail buyers in beauty and perfumery.
The Copra team from top left to right: Vesa Kalho, Chair; Rakesh Aggarwal and Siobhan McDermott, Vice Chairs; Suzie Abel and David Elliott, Directors; Camilla Pascucci, Secretary; Debbie Trumper, Consultant; and Philip Steer, Treasurer
Membership is open to beauty retailers that offer customers a complete beauty package – perfumery, beauty and skin care. Member meetings are held six times a year. The meetings act as a voice for the development and wellbeing of retailing in cosmetics, skin care and fragrance.
Based in London, Copra offers its members the opportunity to learn from key beauty influencers in the industry. Membership applications are welcomed from all premium UK beauty and fragrance retailers – department stores, pharmacies, independents, multiple groups and e-commerce. Membership status is granted at the Copra board’s discretion.
Copra is dedicated to raising money for the industry cancer charity Look Good Feel Better. The charity helps women suffering from cancer and the side effects of treatment.
Copra has successfully evolved its fundraising efforts. If you are looking to raise the profile of your business within retail, then Copra’s event sponsorship opportunities will provide a connection to industry professionals. Copra strives to create long lasting relationships with tangible benefits for all sponsors.
Copra Awards Lunch:
The Copra Awards Lunch is held in
May at the Dorchester Hotel to award
the best new beauty products,
outstanding businesses and
outstanding individuals. The product
awards are based on launches from the
previous year and the membership
agrees each specific award category,
which reflects established sectors within
the beauty industry.
Copra Ball:
The Copra Ball is held in November at
the Park Plaza Hotel. The Copra Ball is
the biggest event for fundraising. It’s a
great excuse to host a big party, where
all of Copra’s friends, supporters and
industry professionals gather together
and have fun while raising as much as
possible for Look Good Feel Better.
Network Hub & Recruitment:
Through the powerful retailer members
and Copra’s brand connections, it aims
to be a network hub for information
from brands to understanding more
about the industry, including supporting
young people seeking a career in beauty,
by way of connecting them to brands
and retailers.
Working with the beauty industry:
Copra strives to cement and improve its
relationships between supporting beauty
and fragrance brands and works with
them to improve the industry as a whole.
Copra welcomes industry guest speakers to member meetings, affirming its collaboration with industry suppliers and brand supporters. Copra is always looking to develop its connections further, offering members the chance to talk to industry specialists.
