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US Prestige Beauty Sales Rise 7% in 2012

But a slow holiday season has observers questioning 2013.

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By: TOM BRANNA

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First, of course, the good news. US prestige beauty sales rose 7% last year to $10.2 billion, compared to the prior year, according to data from The NPD Group Inc., which held its off-the-record Hot Off the Press industry briefing, hosted by Cosmetic Executive Women Inc., at the Harmonie Club last night. More specifically, skin care sales jumped 10%, makeup sales improved 7% and fragrance sales rose 5%.


Meanwhile, beauty sales in food, drug and mass markets increased 3% to $21.2 billion, with makeup increasing 5%, skin care improving 3% and fragrance sales falling 4%, according to Symphony IRI Group.


Analysts note that holiday sales results are often a harbinger for the new year. If they’re right, it may a tough slog in 2013. That’s because, after a rough December, beauty sales rose only 5% in the all-important December sales period. In another prediction, NPD said that prestige beauty sales will continue to outpace mass market sales in 2013.


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