ICMAD and Beauty Cluster Barcelona Expand Global Industry Collaboration

Ian Ginsberg (foreground) of C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries, a board member of ICMAD, touted the organization's growing global cooperation during a reception in Bologna, coinciding with Cosmoprof Worldwide.
Ian Ginsberg (foreground) of C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries, a board member of ICMAD, touted the organization's growing global cooperation during a reception in Bologna, coinciding with Cosmoprof Worldwide.

During an international networking cocktail at the Royal Hotel Carlton, ICMAD and Beauty Cluster Barcelona signed a collaboration agreement to expand industry support around the world. The event coincided with Cosmoprof Worldwide in Bologna.

The move is similar to the existing partnership between Cosmetic Valley of France and Beauty Cluster Barcelona. During the reception, Chris Hobson (Patchology), vice chairman of ICMAD, signed the agreement with Tim Eaves (Quadpack), president of Beauty Cluster Barcelona.

The men both highlighted the value of global cooperation in the age of trade disputes and regulatory challenges. Combined, the organizations represent hundreds of companies and thousands of workers.

Also present was the Italian Trade Agency, which is another critical supporter of the beauty industry.

According to Beauty Cluster Barcelona and ICMAD, future projects include networking events, joint research projects, data sharing, market surveys and corporate social responsibility actions.

“ICMAD has been very active in the United States since 1974, and now our focus is on collaborations, to extend our reach beyond borders," said Hobson. "Europe, and Spain in particular, has a thriving beauty industry. This agreement will help our members reach out into new territories to grow their business.”

Eaves said, “Europe and North America account for two thirds of the global beauty market. This partnership makes sense on every level. I am excited about the many opportunities it will open up for the Beauty Cluster and ICMAD, as we work together to promote a sustainable, competitive and responsible cosmetic industry.”

Enrico Zannini, director of Cosmoprof Worldwide, said, “We are pleased that ICMAD and BCB have chosen Cosmoprof as the occasion to sign their collaboration. At Cosmoprof, we recognize that the beauty industry is global and support our partners working together around the world.”

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