Skins Cosmetics South Africa

History & concept
In 2000, Skins Cosmetics caused a revolution in the Dutch cosmetics retail, because it was the first store in the Netherlands that exclusively sold niche brands that hadn't been available in the Netherlands before. The founders of Skins Cosmetics had a clear vision: to only sell perfume, make-up and skin care products that weren't very well-known in the Netherlands, but that had (and have) an iconic status abroad. Not only the brands, but also the stores' interior design and the service distinguish Skins from other cosmetics' stores. The people who work at Skins have a passion for their profession and are proud of the wonderful brands and love to share this with their customers. Sampling has always been an inextricable part of this. Customers are always invited and stimulated to take samples home with them in order to experience the difference to other products, or to see which products are best for them. There is absolutely no pressure to buy the products on the spot. It's the long term that counts at Skins, building a connection and showing customers what else there is to find in the world of perfume and cosmetics. We want people to be happy with their purchases and with the personal, independent advice that we give them. This has already resulted in various awards since opening day, like the prestigious annual retail award for service and innovation and the award 'Amsterdam Entrepreneur of the Year'.