More than 40 raw material suppliers and cosmetic manufacturers gathered to discuss innovation at the inaugural CosmeticsXchange (CTX), an event co-hosted by Cosmetics & Toiletries magazine and Vertical Xchange.
CTX is a unique venture that brings together leading cosmetics manufacturers with senior executives from suppliers whose technologies can address their specific product development issues. It is a solutions-oriented event created to provide cosmetics manufacturers with collaborative, innovative and forward-looking solutions to their tactical and strategic new product development.
Based on the future projects set out by the manufacturers, C&T magazine and Vertical Xchange staff determined the suppliers that could meet those needs. The result was a number of carefully selected, innovation meetings.
Cocktail Reception
Sunday, Nov. 16, attendees arrived, settled in, and gathered for an evening cocktail reception to break the ice. There was a buzz of excitement as attendees anticipated the next few days' meetings, with an overall positive vibe from both suppliers and manufacturers.
Strategic Thinking
Monday, Nov. 17, CosmeticsXchange attendees gathered at the Carefree Resort Clubhouse for opening remarks and breakfast. Jill Norton (Vertical Xchange), the event director, welcomed attendees and went over housekeeping and the plan for the day. Rachel Grabenhofer, senior editor of Cosmetics & Toiletries magazine, welcomed attendees to this unique event, explaining, "C&T magazine strives to seek out innovative technologies and chemistries from this and other industries from around the world and present this information to formulators and R&D managers." She added, "That's what this event is all about--connecting cutting edge concepts to the people who can use them to ultimately propel them past their competition." CosmeticsXchange had more than 200 meetings planned over the two-day span.
Attendees spent the day rotating between private meetings, the networking lunch and rounded out their day with a cocktail reception and plated dinner at Tonto's bar and grill. They returned for the evening and rested up for another day of innovation and strategic talks.
