SSBeauty’s Biju Kassim on opening the largest retailer in Kolkata and the rising magnificence market
The combat for the highest spot within the Indian magnificence business remains to be on. From big-ticket worldwide labels equivalent to Nars, Laura Mercier, Uncommon Magnificence and Fenty Magnificence coming to India, to numerous homegrown manufacturers being in enlargement mode, skincare and wonder corporations are racing to be on the shopper’s must-buy listing. This growth has additionally resulted within the launch of a number of bodily shops over the previous yr or so, with corporations like Tira, Nykaa and Tata Cliq Palette growing their choices.
SSBeauty is the most recent one. Final month, the multi-beauty platform opened its 14th retailer, the largest one until date, in Kolkata’s Quest Mall. In addition to homegrown manufacturers, the 9,000 sq.ft retailer gives worldwide names equivalent to Dior, NARS, Armani Magnificence, Kilian, Laura Mercier, Givenchy, Clarins, Lancôme, Kiehl’s, Shiseido, Jo Malone and Tom Ford. It additionally has a devoted “Remedy Room”, providing facials and coverings and a “Nail Bar” too—all an try to remain forward within the recreation and supply one thing distinctive to a buyer.
The SSBeauty retailer in Kolkata is unfold throughout 9,000 sq.ft
In an interview with Lounge, Biju Kassim, the chief government of SSBeauty, discusses the developments of the Indian magnificence business, the jap Indian market and what the sweetness client desires. Edited excerpts:
What made you select Kolkata to your largest retailer?
Kolkata epitomizes sophistication within the East. You possibly can’t overlook the rising demand for luxurious magnificence experiences in Kolkata and its surrounding cities.
The wonder market is getting extra crowded and aggressive…
The Indian magnificence business is undoubtedly aggressive, with quite a few huge gamers vying for market share. What units manufacturers aside is their means to innovate, adapt to altering client preferences, and ship distinctive worth. To win the sweetness recreation in India, it is important to prioritize high quality, authenticity, and customer-centricity. Constructing robust relationships with clients, providing personalised experiences, and staying forward of developments are key components that contribute to success within the dynamic magnificence market.
Is there more room out there for multi-retailers and wonder manufacturers?
Completely, India’s magnificence panorama is huge and numerous, with a rising inhabitants of beauty-conscious shoppers. Furthermore, the sweetness business thrives on innovation and variety, and the entry of recent gamers solely provides to the richness of choices out there to shoppers.
The place does the sweetness market stand in 2024?
In 2024, the sweetness market continues to indicate resilience and progress. Whereas the post-pandemic revenge shopping for growth could have subsided, the sweetness market stays strong, pushed by evolving client preferences, particularly from tier two and three cities, digital transformation, and growing consciousness about self-care and private grooming. As folks proceed to prioritize well being, grooming and well-being, the demand for magnificence services is anticipated to stay robust within the years to come back.
What brings a buyer again to a model?
It goes past simply merchandise—it is concerning the general expertise. Whether or not it is the personalised service, the luxurious ambiance, or the unique providing and on-ground structure. You’ll want to depart a long-lasting impression on the shopper.
Dhara Vora Sabhnani is a Mumbai-based journalist.
