The second annual CosmeticsXchange (CTX) began Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009, with an evening cocktail reception. Held at the Arizona Grand Resort in Phoenix, USA, attendees mingled around the pool among colleagues and peers, and discussed various topics of importance within the cosmetics R&D industry. These ranged from the impact of the economy on staffing and the resulting multitude of hats individuals must wear, to the expressed need for a more standardized vocabulary between suppliers, manufacturers and marketing, especially with regard to what’s green, organic and natural. Most attendees anticipated the days to come with a positive outlook on the creative discussions they would soon have.
The next morning, before heading off to meetings, manufacturers and innovators again gathered around the pool for a welcoming breakfast outdoors. While most did not expect the typically cooler Phoenix morning, patio heaters, a hot breakfast and coffee warmed everyone up—and the weather report promised temperatures would climb by midday.
Rachel Grabenhofer, senior editor for Cosmetics & Toiletries magazine, welcomed attendees to CTX, explaining it is a joint venture between C&T magazine and Vertical Xchange. She added that “Cosmetics & Toiletries magazine has a mission to help our readers formulate results. We believe the unique model of this event will enable you to do just that.”
Following Grabenhofer, Andy Wuebben, event director, outlined some housekeeping details and paired manufacturers up with their respective hosts. As of this report, meetings are under way and promise to become an inspiring “think tank” of new ideas for cosmetics R&D, just as they were last year. While the arranged meetings are private, the social activities allow attendees to interact openly.
CosmeticsXchange introduces only top-tier businesses with real needs to proven suppliers with real solutions. The entire event is calculated and choreographed to match the right business with the right supplier so each interaction leads to results. Executive guests meet one-on-one with a filtered field of suppliers that is thoroughly briefed on needs and initiatives. Each comes well prepared with solutions that challenge conventional wisdom and change business. The deliberate match of qualified solution-providers to corporate needs means business gets done quickly. The CosmeticsXchange experience happens in a comfortable and relaxed environment, free from distractions and focused on progress. With concierge-level service and uncompromising attention to detail, the event captures the interest of executives on both sides of business.
