Soap, Detergent, Perfume & Cosmetics Manufacturing in France - Market Size, Industry Analysis, Trends and Forecasts (2025-2029)

Soap, Detergent, Perfume & Cosmetics Manufacturing in France industry analysis

Soap, detergent, perfume and cosmetic manufacturers have had to contend with seismic shifts in consumer behaviour influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, inflationary challenges, growing environmental awareness and the rise of e-commerce. Unprecedented demand for anti-bacterial products during the COVID-19 pandemic has settled. The industry has faced pressure from high inflation, which peaked at 6.3% in February 2023, according to Trading Economics. Consumers shifted towards buying essential goods, which led to a decline in sales volumes for laundry and hygiene products. Major brands like Procter & Gamble and Unilever saw consumers choosing own-label alternatives to save money, reducing revenue. While the demand for eco-friendly products is on the up, a segment of the market is still leaning heavily towards affordable options, compelling manufacturers to reassess their product development and marketing strategies to capture the spectrum of consumer interests. Revenue is set to grow at a compound annual rate of 0.8% in the five years through 2025 to €32.1 billion.

Trends and Insights

• Hygiene product sales soar during the pandemic. Escalating health concerns drove up sales of soaps and detergents as people looked to avoid contracting the virus. Hand sanitiser sales fared especially well.
• COVID-19 mixes up the industry’s sales mix. The pandemic-led closure of physical retail outlets dampened demand for perfumes, while heightened hygiene awareness increased sales of soaps and detergents.
• Dominant brands command shelf space, but eco-consciousness fuels sustainable challengers. The largest manufacturers dominate through their strong brand reputations, which help them win shelf space. At the same time, growing eco-awareness gives rise to smaller sustainable brands.