Woolies unveils beauty makeover

"We've listened to our customers, looked at global trends and talked to experts," says Amanda Graham, Woolworths Beauty group head. "We went through quite an exhaustive process and have selected not only the premium brands our customers have told us they would like, but also a number of innovative, cutting-edge brands that we think they'll find quite exciting.

"We believe we're offering something for everyone - from the woman who wants the latest in high-tech cosmeceuticals to someone who can't wait to try the latest hot international colour."

Among the favourite brands which will be available are Clarins, Lancome and Gatineau. Another name that South Africans may recognise is Dr Hauschka, a range of skin care products from Germany previously only available through beauty salons and health stores.

Exclusive

Woolworths will also be bringing in a number of top imported ranges, previously unavailable in South Africa and will be the exclusive retailer for these international ranges. These include REN; Elemis' aromatherapy-based skin and body products; Bloom Cosmetics; the Korres range of natural body, skin and hair care products from Greece; the 'cosmeceutical' range Freeze 24/7; and Toni & Guy haircare products for women and men.

"One of the most exciting new products we're introducing is Freeze 24/7," says Amanda Graham. "It's one of the most advanced technologies in the skincare market today - a 'cosmeceutical' that, like botox, relaxes the muscles underlying the skin to visibly reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles - nature not needles!"

With so many new choices available, women will be glad to know that trained Woolworths beauty consultants will be on hand to assist in choosing the best products for their individual needs.

Luxury and pampering

Woolworths will also be launching a number of international luxury names in fragrances for both men and women, including Yves St Laurent, Lacoste, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Mont Blanc, DKNY, Aramis and Tommy Hilfiger.

Added to this, eight flagship stores nationally are launching a brand-new beauty 'store within a store' environment intended to compare with the finest in the world. Sandton, Cavendish, Canal Walk, Eastgate, Cresta, Menlyn, Tygervalley and Gateway Woolworths stores are launching their beauty areas throughout the October to December period, with more stores to follow in 2007.

At these stores customers will not only be able to purchase their favourite beauty products, they will also be able to enjoy a pampering 'mini spa' treatment. Woolworths has linked up with Sanctuary Spas, whose beauty therapists offer a range of services including manicures and head and neck massages.

Says Amanda Graham, "Beauty at Woolworths isn't just about the products. It's about the convenience of being able to pick up a lipstick or a moisturiser at the same time you're doing your other shopping. It's also about being able to relax and spoil yourself and enjoy a 15 or 30 minute facial, massage or other indulgent treatment on offer. It's about us finding another way to make a difference in our customers' lives."