The Covid-19 pandemic dealt two major body blows to the global fragrance industry. A deep slump in travel retail and the fact that socialising and partying were off the table in many key markets.
But the industry started to turn a corner in the first half of the year as vaccine programs saw more people out and about in the US, China and Europe.
The way people understand the role of fragrance has evolved during the coronavirus crisis, says Jerry Vittoria, chairman of the US Fragrance Foundation and global president of fine fragrance at Firmenich, the world’s largest privately-owned fragrance and flavours company.
“While the pandemic has hit our industry hard, our consumers’ reaction and evolution of their fragrance rituals emphasises the importance of fragrance in all our lives. Simply put, fragrances played a powerful role in supporting us”.
Here is a list of the major gong winners from the recent US Fragrance Foundation Awards for 2021. All of them are available in Australia, in-store or online at retailers including Myer, David Jones, Mecca, Chemist Warehouse and Peony Melbourne.
1) Women’s Luxury – Gucci The Alchemist’s Garden – A Chant for the Nymph
2) Men’s Luxury –Ermengildo Zegna Ezzenze Roman Wood
3) Universal Luxury – Byredo Tobacco Mandarin
4) Women’s Prestige – Giorgio Armani My Way
5) Men’s Prestige – Dior Homme Eau de Toilette
6) Universal Prestige – Tom Ford Black Orchid Parfum
7) Popular Fragrance of the Year – Ariana Grande R.E.M.
8) Hall of Fame – Lancome Tresor
9) Indie Fragrance of the Year – Arquiste Misfit
10) Consumer Choice, Women’s Prestige – Marc Jacobs Perfect
11) Consumer Choice, Women’s Popular – Victoria’s Secret Bombshell Passion
12) Consumer Choice, Men’s Prestige – Calvin Klein CK Everyone