Sunday Business: Supply Side – Global Cosmetics News

In this monthly roundup, the global beauty supply chain continued to undergo significant transformation as ingredient suppliers, packaging specialists and manufacturing partners repositioned their businesses for long-term growth. Portfolio optimisation, strategic acquisitions, manufacturing efficiency and investment in packaging infrastructure all point to a supply chain that is becoming more specialised, more resilient and increasingly focused on supporting premium beauty innovation.

Portfolio reshaping remained a defining theme across the sector. Gerresheimer agreed to sell its Primary Packaging Plastics business to Apax Funds, enabling the company to focus on higher-value pharmaceutical packaging and drug delivery solutions while strengthening its financial position. Similarly, IFF announced the sale of its Food Ingredients business to CVC in a US$4.3 billion transaction, allowing the company to concentrate resources on its core businesses while simplifying its portfolio.

Alongside these divestments, companies continue to strengthen their balance sheets to support future investment. IFF also secured a US$1 billion term loan to refinance existing debt, reinforcing financial flexibility as it continues its long-term strategic transformation.

Fragrance remains one of the industry’s most active areas for consolidation. Givaudan acquired a majority stake in Eurofragance, strengthening its position in fast-growing fragrance markets and expanding its global capabilities. Symrise also moved to acquire Floral Concept, enhancing its portfolio of premium natural fragrance ingredients as demand for high-quality botanical raw materials continues to grow. Meanwhile, Samyang Group expanded its international fragrance business through the acquisition of Japanese flavour and fragrance company Soda Aromatic, reflecting continued investment in specialist ingredient expertise across Asia.

Packaging suppliers are also expanding through acquisition and investment. Berlin Packaging strengthened its UK operations with the acquisition of BlueSky, reinforcing the importance of regional packaging capabilities as beauty brands seek more responsive and localised supply chains. In parallel, International Paper broke ground on a US$225 million corrugated packaging plant in Mississippi, highlighting continued investment in sustainable packaging infrastructure to support growing demand across consumer goods sectors.

Manufacturing consolidation continues to reshape Europe’s contract manufacturing landscape. A South Korean private equity firm is seeking to acquire French cosmetics manufacturer COSBELLE, demonstrating continued international interest in specialist European manufacturing expertise and the strategic value of established production capabilities.

At the same time, suppliers continue to focus on operational efficiency. Evonik announced plans to cut 3,200 jobs as part of a broader efficiency programme, reflecting the pressure facing global chemical and ingredient manufacturers to improve competitiveness while navigating slower industrial demand and higher operating costs.

Taken together, this monthly roundup highlights a supply chain that is becoming increasingly focused, global and strategically aligned with future market needs. Acquisitions, portfolio optimisation and infrastructure investment are reshaping how ingredients, packaging and manufacturing services are delivered to beauty brands worldwide. In 2026, supply chain leadership is no longer defined solely by scale, but by the ability to deliver innovation, efficiency and resilience in an increasingly competitive global market.