Keeping the industry connected virtually

COSSMA: When did you realise that you need to create a virtual platform and how did it go from there to the launch?

Cathy Laporte: Digital communications have become more important than ever in the past year with imposed lockdowns and travel restrictions. With face-to-face events postponed or cancelled, it is imperative that we continue to provide our audience with the latest ingredient launches, insight into trends and network opportunities through a virtual offering.

In-cosmetics group has wholeheartedly embraced this challenge by launching several new digital initiatives to ensure we keep the conversation going and unite personal care professionals. For example, the launch of our connect platform took place in June 2020 and acts as an online resource of educational articles, webinars, and videos for the industry. This was followed by in-cosmetics virtual, which took place over three days and provided an online meeting place for suppliers and manufacturers to network, much like our traditional face-to-face events. We continue to listen to customer feedback and are always looking to enhance the user experience, so the launch of “in-cosmetics Discover” seemed like the next logical step in our mission to keep the industry connected and up to date. Reflecting an offering similar to the innovation zone at the shows, the digital space takes a different approach to our previous virtual offerings as it focuses on new ingredients and innovations, enabling exhibitors from across our portfolio of shows to promote their latest products and be discovered.

Which target group is the new platform aimed at?

Our events are renowned for providing industry professionals with strong networking opportunities and access to the very latest ingredient launches. Exhibitors look forward to displaying their new and existing products and making new partnerships with R&D professionals, as well as building upon existing relationships. The new discover platform is no different, it provides a space for ingredient suppliers and product manufacturers to connect, especially with the new messaging function we have added.

What requirements do potential participants have to meet to be able to register?

The platform is free for anyone looking to purchase new ingredients. All manufacturers are required to do is sign up by creating an account. Once this has been completed, they are free to search for new ingredients, speak to our exhibitors, and watch the speaker sessions. Suppliers that would like to have their innovations listed can purchase an online package that allows them to showcase their ingredients on the discover site. 

How do potential partners find each other? What contact options are there?

We have kept it simple and easy for potential partners to connect. Firstly, R&D professionals can browse the directory looking for ingredients that take their interest, plus this process can be sped up through searching or applying filters to view relevant innovations. After discovering a product that piques their interest, visitors can use the messaging function to get in touch with the exhibitor and learn more.

Once the contact has been made, what happens next?

The platform serves as a place to display innovations and make connections. Manufacturers can easily find ingredients and message their suppliers, but after this communication has been made, it’s up to the two parties to take the conversation further by sharing contact details.

Will there be webinars, events, or digital press conferences after the first introductory session?

Currently, we have had the “New Ingredients Showcase” sessions. They involved a series of online sessions that will help viewers gain a better understanding of a supplier’s product and its capabilities. We have experienced high demand for virtual sessions that dive into the finer detailsof new launches, so we are currently considering more ingredient showcases for later in the year.