GlossyBox cosmetic trial service arrives in South Africa

"The European and American versions have gained significant ground in the market, being viewed as one of the best methods for beauty and cosmetic houses to introduce their brands to their specific target audiences and induce trial," says Sonja Ballenden, CEO and co-founder of GlossyBox South Africa.

"This is a subscription based service, which allows subscribers the opportunity of trying beauty and cosmetic products, according to their beauty profile completed online, and having a selection of 4-5 luxury trial products delivered to their home or office. This allows the subscriber time to try out products suited to their likes, in the relaxed setting of their home or office. Globally, subscribers have reported that this manner of trial allows them to experience the product and determine its suitability.

"Because the subscriber has listed her preferences on her secure online profile, our professional beauty consultants have matched specific products to her desired product list, which substantially increases the receptiveness of the user to the product, heightens the enjoyment of the trial period and assists the subscriber in making purchasing decisions that are self-discovered, not forced. This in turn leads to continued purchase for our product partners.

"The concept has partnered with not only the world's top beauty and cosmetic houses, but has also partnered with both leading and fledgling South African beauty and cosmetic manufacturers. The South Africa company is unique in the international stable, as our approach is to include beauty products not only for different types of skin types and complexions, but also for a far broader market of men and women, defined on the grounds of the different wants or requirements of specific ethnic and racial groups.

"In addition to the service, it provides various platforms for the subscribers to learn about new product launches, to share their experiences and provide us with valuable feedback so that their experience is always enjoyable and met with keen anticipation.

"Members pay a monthly fee of R130, which includes the box, contents and delivery. For the selection of high-end products our subscribers receive, the return outweighs the cost, especially for women who wish to keep up with the latest beauty trends and products on the market," she concludes.

Hatched by German internet incubator, Rocket Internet, GlossyBox.co.za shares the stable with other online businesses under the Rocket Internet banner that include Groupon, Wimdu and Zalando. The product's growth across the globe since its inception has been highl, expanding into 20 markets by the first quarter of 2012 after only being launched in the first quarter of 2011. The company already has a following on its country specific Facebook pages and websites and attracts attention from various bloggers, vloggers and others in the beauty industry who are keen recipients.

For more information, go to www.glossybox.co.za.