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Lakme: India's Leading Cosmetics Brand

Lakme, an Indian cosmetics brand owned by Hindustan Unilever, has been a leader in the Indian beauty market since its inception in 1952, driven by a vision to cater to the beauty needs of Indian women. The brand aims to understand customer preferences and improve its marketing strategies to maintain competitiveness in the growing cosmetics market. The study focuses on evaluating customer satisfaction, brand perception, and identifying areas for improvement in Lakme's product offerings and services.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
38 views32 pages

Lakme: India's Leading Cosmetics Brand

Lakme, an Indian cosmetics brand owned by Hindustan Unilever, has been a leader in the Indian beauty market since its inception in 1952, driven by a vision to cater to the beauty needs of Indian women. The brand aims to understand customer preferences and improve its marketing strategies to maintain competitiveness in the growing cosmetics market. The study focuses on evaluating customer satisfaction, brand perception, and identifying areas for improvement in Lakme's product offerings and services.

Uploaded by

Anushka Rawat
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

INTRODUCTION

Lakme is an Indian cosmetics brand which is owned by Hindustan Unilever. Having


Shraddha Kapoor as the brand [Link] ranked at number 1 among the cosmetics brands
in India. Lakme started as a 100% subsidiary of Tata Oil Mills (Tomco), It was named after
the French opera Lakme, which itself is the French from Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth)
who is removed for her beauty. It was started in 1952 famously, because the Prime Minister
Jawaharlal Nehru was concerned that Indian women were spending precious foreign
exchange on beauty products and personally requested JRD Tata to manufacture them in
India.

"Lakme is the Indian women's Beauty Sutra inspiring expression of her unique beauty and
sensuality. Lakme brings expert products and services that are borne out of true
understanding of the needs of the Indian women. They help the Indian women in expression
of herself-sensual, original, expressive, alive and intuitive. Lakme inspires her to unleash the
potency of her femininity, beauty and sensuality.

KEY FACTS
Lakme was the first major beauty brand in India and takes pride in being the expert on Indian
Beauty for over 50 years. It is complete beauty brand spanning colour, cosmetics, skin care
and hair styling products and extending to beauty services through the network of Lakme
beauty salons. Its bond with beauty and fashion is manifested through the Lakme fashion
week, which is now the largest fashion event of its kind in the country. Lakme has footprint
over 1200 assisted sales outless, which is the largest spain of outlets with "Beauty Advisers"
in the country.

OUR VISION
Unilever products touch the lives of over 2 billion peoples every day whether that's through
feeling great because they've got shiny hair and brilliant smile, keeping their homes freash
and clean. Or by enjoying a great cup of tea, satisfying meal or healthy snack.
Background of the Study:

Growing Indian Cosmetic Market:

The Indian cosmetics market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increased


disposable income and a growing demand for beauty products.

Lakme's Role:

Lakme has played a crucial role in shaping the Indian cosmetics industry, introducing make-
up to Indian women and becoming a trusted brand.

Need for Research:

Understanding customer satisfaction, brand perception, and marketing effectiveness is


essential for Lakme to remain competitive and meet evolving consumer demands.

Need and Importance of the Study:

Understanding Consumer Preferences:

The study aims to identify customer preferences, choices, and perceptions related to Lakme
products.

Evaluating Marketing Strategies:


It will assess the effectiveness of Lakme's marketing strategies in reaching and satisfying its
target audience.

Identifying Areas for Improvement:

The research will help identify areas where Lakme can improve its products, services, and
marketing efforts.

Strategic Decision Making:

The findings can be used to inform strategic decisions regarding product development,
marketing campaigns, and brand positioning.

OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

To understand the expectations and requirements of all the customers.

To examine the trends over time in order to take action on a timely. basis.

Establishing priorities and standards to judge how well company has met the goals,

To analyze the awareness of the products of Lakmé.

To study that towards which brand the customer is attracted more on the basis of price
Lakme.

To know about the promotional activity performed to influence the customers.


SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This study uncovers the impact, utility and effectiveness & efficiency of marketing strategies
of Lakme on the success of cosmetic industry. A special emphasis is laid down on Lakme
cosmetics

The projects begins with detailed information about marketing strategies and the impact of
measuring customer satisfaction in cosmetic industry Further. It covers topic as data
collection took and research methodology used for the project. Then it gives the complete
analysis of the data collected and it is then used to reach to a conclusion.

This study is useful for the better understanding of marketing strategies towards the Lakme
cosmetics industry. As this study is confined to Lakme. It vers an analysis of customer
behavior, attitude, perception, marketing strategies and satisfaction with respect to Lakme as
a BRAND in cosmetic industry.
CHAPTER-2
COMPANY PROFILE
OVERVIEW OF INDUSTRY
PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE TRENDS IN MAKEUP Cosmetics (colloquially known as
makeup or make-up) are care substances used to enhance the appearance or of the human
body. They are generally mixtures of chemical compounds, some being derived from natural
sources, many being synthetic

In the US, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) which regulates cosmetics, defines
cosmetics as "intended to be applied to the human body for cleansing. beautifying, promoting
attractiveness, or altering the appearance without affecting the body's structure or functions.
This broad definition includes, as well, any material intended for use as a component of a
cosmetic product. The FDA specifically excludes soap from this category.

The word cosmetics derives from the Greek κοσμητική τέχνη (kosmetikë tekhnë), meaning
"Technique of dress and omament", from κόσμητικός (kosmetikos), "skilled in ordering or
arranging"] and that from κόσμος (kosmos), meaning amongst others "order" and "omament"

Archeological evidence of cosmetics dates at least from ancient Egypt and Greece. According
to one source,Many major developments include

Castor oil by ancient Egypt as a protective balm


Skin creams made of beeswax, olive oil, and rosewater described by Romans.
Vaseline and lanolin in the nineteenth century.
Nivea Crème in 1911.
The Ancient Greeks also used cosmetics. Cosmetics are mentioned in the Old Testament-2
Kings 9:30 where Jezebel painted her eyelids-approximately 840 BC-and the book of Esther
describes varous beauty treatments as well.
Cosmetic use was frowned upon at many points in Western history. For example, in the 19th
century, Queen Victoria publicly declared makeup improper, vulgar, and acceptable only for
use by actors Of the major cosmetics firms, the largest is LAKME. run by Unilever and
owner by CEO Anil [Link] products are now widely available from dedicated
internet-only retailers, who have more recently been joined online by established outlets,
including the major department stores and traditional bricks and mortar beauty retailers.

Company profile
Lakme is an Indian brand of cosmetics, owned by Unilever and run by CEO Anil Chopra.
Lakme started as a 100% subsidiary of Tata Oil Milis (Tomco), part of the Tata Group: it was
named after the French opera Lakme, which itself is the French form of Lakshmi, the goddess
of wealth, also renowned for her beauty. Indian cosmetic Lakme was started in 1952,
famously because the then Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, was concerned that Indian
women were spending precious foreign exchange on beauty products, and personally
requested JRD Tata to manufacture them in India Simone Tata joined the company as
director, and went on to become Its chairman. In 1996 Tata sold off their stakes in Lakme
Lever to HLL. for Rs 200 Crore (45 million USS), and went on to create Trent and Westside.
Even today, when most multinational beauty products are available in India, Lakme still
occupies a special place in the hearts of Indian women. Lakme also started its new business
in the beauty industry by setting up Lakme Beauty Salons all over India. Now HUL
(Hindustan Unilever Limited) has about 110 salons all over India providing beauty services.
Lakme' has been ranked as 47 most trusted brand in India by The Brand Trust Report The
company is the title sponsor for Lakme Fashion Week (LFW) a bi-annual fashion event
which takes place in Mumbai.

Makeup types Cosmetics include skin-care creams, lotions, powder, perfumes, Ipaticks,
fingemail and toe nail polish, eye and facial makeup towelettes, permanent waves, colored
contact lenses, hair colors, hair sprays and gels, deodorants, hand sanitizer, baby products,
bath oils, bubble baths, bath salts, butters and many other types of products. A subset of
cosmetics is called "make-up," which refers primarily to colored products intended to aller
the user's appearance. Many manufacturer distinguish between decorative cosmetics and care
cosmetics. Most cosmetics are distinguished by the area of the body intended for application
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES OFFERED:

Lakme is world renown and great cosmetic company a wonderful gift hamper for today's
women

CATEGORIES

1. Lakme lipstick
2. Lakume eyeliner
3. Lakme kajal
4. Lakme strawberries face wash
5. Lakme radiant rose powder
6. Lakme nail enamel remover
7. Lakme shampoo
8. Lakme deep pore cleansing milk
Types and varieties of products
Colours
From the spicy shades to the flattering lock,
Lakme offers a range of products in the face,
lips, eyes and nail segment for the beauty aficionados
Faco
Lakmé Daily Wear Souffle
Lakmé Perfecting liquid Foundation
Lakmé Radiance Compact
Lakmé Flawless Matte Complexion Compact.
Lips:
Lakmé Enrich Lipcolor
Perfecting Definition Lip Pencil
Starshine Lip-gloss
Glosses in lustrous shades available in 14 shades.
Eyes
From dramatic to natural lock-a wide range of products are on offer to create the perfect eyes.
1. Lakmé Kajal
2. Lame insta Eyeliner eyelids
3. Lakme Lakmé Shimmer Eye Cube

Nails:
True Wear Nail Enamel,
Nail Enamel with Lacquer-like finish.
Enamel Contains resins and silicone with colour lock technology that gives brilliant long
lasting shine.
14

Skin:
Lakme is there to pamper your skin with specialized products for the diva in you
Cleansing:
Strawberry Silk Splash Face Wash
Lakmé Fundamental Deep Pore Cleansing Mik
Moisturizing
Lakmé Fundamental Peach Milk Moisturiser skin.
2. Lakmé Fundamental Winter Care Lotion

Sun Protection: The range comprises of lotions to keep your skin healthy and younger.

CONCLUSION
The competition is fierce in the multi-channel retailing environment. A business that hopes to
grow and prosper requires a comprehensive logistics and transportation strategy, executed
flawlessly

The dilemma for management lies in trying to meet consumers' growing expectations while
keeping costs in check. In response to these issues of multi-channel growth, more and more
carners are branching out to offer logistics services. Those businesses that work to build
successful retationships with logistics and transportation vendors will find that their efforts
lead to improved customer service and profitability.

It's not an easy task, but it is certainly one that's achievable with the tools and technology
available today.

Lakme has been found to be the most preferred brand it meet the promise made to the
customer. Consumer relies on the Lakme products because it provides good quality, good
results, good services, etc.

So that customer may prefer Lakme products. While conducting survey I found that the
customer may like the showrooms of the Lakme products. They still likes the easily
availability of various products. So the Lakme products customers are fully satisfied to use
the products.

Recommendations.

Promotions beyond fashion week.


The brand should not lose its focus away from cosmetics. It can proved to very detrimental
For vast reach unlikely, in the short-term "some sort of an allience or co-branding with the
salons that already may, perhaps, have been a better strategy.
The general perception is that company-owned salons are expensive. Though Lakme beauty
salons are reasonably priced, it has not been communicated well enough.
CHAPTER-1
COMPANY PROFILE
CHAPTER-3
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
CHAPTER-4
DATA ANALYSIS AND ITERPRETATION
AND QUESITIONNAIRE
CHAPTER-5
FINDINGS,CONCLUSIONS AND
RECOMMENDATIONS
CHAPTER-6
REFERENCE AND BIBLIOGRAPHY
CHAPTER-7
ANNEXURE

RESEARCH DESIGN

Research methodology is the specific procedures or techniques used to identify, select


process, and analyse information about a topic. In a research paper, the methodology section
allows the reader to critically evaluate a study's overall validity and reliability.

DESCRIPTIVE RESEARCH DESIGN


Descriptive research is a study designed to depict the participants in an accurate way. More
simply put, descriptive research is all about describing people who take part in the study.

SOURCES OF DATA

Data collection is the term used to describe a process of preparing and collecting data

 Primary Data Questionnaire given to 150 respondents.

 Secondary Data-Websites and online journals, Published reports & Review of


Literature from published articles.

STRUCTURE OF QUESTIONNAIRE

Questionnaire was divided into two sections. First part was designed to know the general
information about customers and the second part contained the respondent's opinions about
customer's satisfaction.

SAMPLING TECHNIQUE:

Convenience sampling method

- A convenience sample is one of the main types of non-probability sampling methods.

- A convenience sample is made up of people who are easy to reach.

.
LIMITATIONS

Geographical scope of the study was limited to a small area, which may not represent the
whole sector of India.

Size of the sample is 150, which, of course small in comparison to entire population.

Due to limitation of time only few people were selected for the study.

QUESTIONNAIRE:

1. Name:

[Link]:
a) Male, b) Female

[Link] status

a) Manied, b) Unmarried

4. Age

a) 18-28, b) 29-38,

c) 39-48, d) 40 above

5. Do you prefer lakme products (Brands) for Cosmetics:

a) Yes, b) No

[Link] which purpose you usually use Lakme product's,

a)Eyes, b) lipsticks,

c) Face, d)skin

7. How often do you buy lakme products?

a) Rarely , b) Frequency,
c) Very frequency, d) Do not shop

8. Do you think Lakme provides quality products to its customers?


a) Agree

, b) Disagree

9. What do you think is the main reason for your use of Lakme products ?

a) price,

b) Variety,

c) Quality.

d) Availability.

e) promotion.

10. Any problem you faced while using it?Column

a) Agree Strongly,

11. State your level of satisfaction/dissatisfaction with regard to the products from Lakme?

a) Level of 20-40 b) level of 40-60


c) level of 60-80, d) level of 80-100.

[Link] changes you would like to see in Lakme products?


a) More products range, b)More shades

c) Better packaging d) All the above.

[Link] you recommend Lakme products to others?

a) Yes ,b) No,

c) Maybe

14. Give your suggestions to improve Lakme product?

: Gender of the respondents


Gender
[Link]. of respondents

Male 04
Female 26
Total 30
Sales
13%

87%

: Gender of respondents

Interpretation : From the above the table it is interpreted that the number of male
respondent is 13%
And female respondents is 87%.
Inference: Majority is 87% of respondents are Female.

Marital status of respondents


Particulars No. Of . respondents
Married 05
Unmarried 25
Total 30
Sales

17%

83%

Marital status of respondents

Interpretation: From the above table it is interpreted that the number of Married
respondents are 17% and unmarried respondents are 83%.

Interference: Majority is 83% of respondents are Unmarried persons.

.Do you prefer lakme products (Brands )for Cosmetics


Particulars [Link] respondents
Yes 24
No 0
May be 06
Total 30
Sales

20%

80%

Do you perfer lakme products.

Interpretation :From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents
between yes of respondents are 80% between No of respondents are0% ,Between may be of
respondents are 20%

Inference: Majority (94%) of the respondents are yes.

.For which purpose you usually use Lakme product’s


Particulars [Link] respondents
Eyes 14
Lipsticks 09
Face 7
Nails 0
Total 30

Sales

23% 1st Qtr


2nd Qtr
3rd Qtr
47% 4th Qtr

30%

Interpretation :From the above table it above table it is interpreted that the number of
respondents between Eyes of respondents are 47% %, between lipsticks of respondents are
30%,Between Face of respondents are 23%%, Nails of respondents are 0%
Inference: Majority (47%) of the respondents are Eyes.

.How often do you use lakmé poducts?


Particulars [Link] respondents
Rarely 8
Frequently 13
Very frequently 9
Do not shop 0
Total 30
Sales

27% 1st Qtr


30% 2nd Qtr
3rd Qtr
4th Qtr

43%

How often do you use Lakme product’s

Interpretation :From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents
between Rarely of respondents are 27 %, between Frequently of respondents are 43
%,Between very frequently of respondents are 30%, Do not shop of respondents are 0% .
Inference: Majority (43%) of the respondents are Frequently.

: Lakmé provides quality products to its customers


Particulars No. Of . respondents
Strongly agree 22
Disagree 2
Both 6
Total 30
Sales
1st Qtr 2nd Qtr 3rd Qtr 4th Qtr

20%

7%

73%

Lakmé provides quality products to its customers


Interpretation: From the above table it is interpreted that the number of strongly agree
respondents 73% , disagree 7% ,both 20%.

Inference: Majority (73%) of respondents say strongly agree

What do you think is the main reason for your use of lakme products.
Particulars No. of. Respondents
Price 08
Variety 07
Quality 08
Availability 07
Total 30
Sales
1st Qtr 2nd Qtr 3rd Qtr 4th Qtr

23%
27%

27%
23%

what is the main reason for your use of lakmé products


Interpretation: From the above table it is interpreted that the number price respondents are
27%, between the variety respondents are 23%, between the Quality are 27% and between
Availability respondents are 23%

Inference: Majority (27%)of responds of price.

Any problem you faced while using it?


Particulars [Link] . respondents
Agree 2
Disagree 28
Total 30
Sales
7%

93%

Any problem do you faced while using it?

Interpretation: From the above table it is interpreted that the number between Agree
respondents are 7%, , between the Disagree are 93%

Inference: Majority (93%)of respondents are Disagree .

[Link] you recommend lakme products to others


Particulars [Link]. respondents
Yes 26
No 0
May be 4
Total 30
Sales
1st Qtr 2nd Qtr 4th Qtr

13%

87%

Interpretation :From the above table it is interpreted that the number of yes respondents are
87% , No of respondents are 0%, between May be of respondents are 13%.

Inference: Majority (87%) of the respondents are yes

Common questions

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Customer research is pivotal in Lakme's marketing strategy as it helps the brand understand consumer preferences, satisfaction levels, and perceptions, which are crucial for staying competitive. This research aids in evaluating the effectiveness of marketing strategies and identifying areas for improvement, ensuring that Lakme’s product development and marketing campaigns align with customer expectations. The findings from such research can be utilized to inform strategic decisions regarding product innovation, marketing tactics, and brand positioning, ensuring the company's offerings remain relevant and appealing to its target market .

Lakme leveraged strategic partnerships and brand positioning primarily through its sponsorship of the Lakme Fashion Week. This association with one of the biggest fashion events in India enhanced its brand image and appeal, positioning Lakme as a trendsetter and innovator in the beauty industry. The alliance with high-profile fashion events enabled the brand to reach broader audiences, transcending traditional cosmetic sales and establishing a strong influence in the fashion and lifestyle segments. Moreover, Lakme's network of beauty salons extends its presence from not just being a product provider to an experiential beauty service brand. These strategic moves allowed Lakme to build a comprehensive brand image that attracts both consumers interested in high fashion and those seeking reliable everyday beauty products .

Lakme employs various marketing research methodologies to adapt to consumer needs effectively. Primary data collection through consumer surveys and questionnaires enables direct understanding of consumer preferences, satisfaction, and purchasing behavior. This feedback is essential for improving products and strategies, reflecting a commitment to consumer-centric development. Secondary data from industry reports and studies adds qualitative depth, aiding in the analysis of broader market trends and competitor strategies. Moreover, the use of descriptive research techniques helps in visualizing consumer demographics and psychographics, allowing Lakme to tailor its messaging and product offerings accordingly. The holistic integration of these methodologies allows Lakme to anticipate market shifts and rapidly innovate, thus maintaining competitiveness and fulfilling evolving consumer demands efficiently .

Consumer feedback plays a significant role in shaping Lakme's product offerings and customer satisfaction initiatives. By conducting thorough market research and surveys, Lakme evaluates consumer preferences, satisfaction levels, and areas for improvement. This feedback is crucial for guiding the brand in innovating and refining its products to meet consumer expectations accurately. For instance, consumer insights can lead to the development of new shades that match Indian skin tones better, formulations that cater to local climatic conditions, or packaging that's more convenient for users. Additionally, understanding consumer perceptions helps Lakme craft marketing strategies that resonate more effectively with its target audience, enhancing brand loyalty and market performance. Continuous engagement with consumers through feedback channels ensures Lakme remains aligned with current trends and consumer demands, sustaining high satisfaction levels .

Lakme's beauty salon network holds strategic significance in expanding its brand influence across India by offering a direct consumer engagement platform beyond traditional retail. These salons provide a firsthand experience of Lakme's beauty products and services, thus strengthening brand loyalty and increasing product visibility. The salons serve as an extension of the brand that aids in potential upselling, directly correlating product use with expert beauty services. Moreover, they allow Lakme to gather valuable customer insights and feedback on their product efficacy and preferences, enabling more tailored product development. This approach complements Lakme's image as not just a cosmetic brand but a comprehensive beauty solutions provider, reinforcing its market presence and appeal among consumers seeking quality beauty services and products .

Lakme faces several challenges in maintaining its dominant position in the Indian cosmetics market. The increasing presence of international cosmetics brands in India poses a significant competitive threat, as these brands bring diverse product offerings and advanced technologies. Moreover, the preferences of Indian consumers are rapidly evolving towards international trends, necessitating constant innovation and adaptation from Lakme. The brand also needs to address any perceptions of being outdated due to its long-standing history. Finally, sustaining an extensive retail and service network amidst rising operational costs, while ensuring high quality and maintaining competitive pricing, presents ongoing logistical challenges. Continuous investment in R&D, marketing, and strategic innovations is crucial for Lakme to address these challenges effectively .

Historically, cosmetics were often viewed with skepticism, associated with superficiality or vanity, and at times even improper, such as Queen Victoria's declaration against them in the 19th century. This perception has influenced Lakme’s market strategy and product development by focusing on redefining cosmetics as essential elements of personal care and self-expression. Lakme's branding emphasized understanding the unique beauty needs of Indian women and encouraging expression of femininity and confidence, which helped move away from historical stereotypes. Over the years, Lakme has incorporated trends that resonate with self-empowerment and natural beauty to align with contemporary consumer attitudes, emphasizing quality and safety while adhering to traditional aspects valued by Indian customers. These strategic product developments and messaging helped Lakme build trust and modern relevance despite historical biases .

Lakme evolved its brand image and product offerings through strategic diversification and alignment with industry trends. Initially, Lakme focused on being the first major beauty brand in India by providing locally manufactured beauty products to meet the needs of Indian women. Over time, it expanded its product range to include not just cosmetics but also skincare and haircare products, thus becoming a comprehensive beauty solutions provider. Lakme also established beauty salons to offer services beyond products. The brand enhanced its image by sponsoring Lakme Fashion Week, associating itself with fashion and modern beauty trends. It continuously undertook consumer research to adapt its offerings to market demands, refining products based on consumer feedback and shifting fashion influences. This ongoing adaptation allowed Lakme to maintain its relevancy despite the influx of international brands in the market .

The establishment and initial success of Lakme were significantly influenced by the socio-economic context of post-independence India. At the time, India was focused on building self-reliance and reducing dependency on foreign products. Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's concern that Indian women spent valuable foreign exchange on imported beauty products led to the creation of Lakme, with the personal request to JRD Tata to manufacture affordable and locally-produced cosmetics. This nationalistic sentiment and support from the government gave Lakme a strong platform to establish itself in a market that was devoid of domestic cosmetic options. Furthermore, as an early entrant, Lakme could shape consumer preferences in the nascent Indian cosmetics industry, creating a loyal customer base that trusted its domestic identity and quality offerings .

Lakme played a crucial role in shaping the Indian cosmetics industry by introducing locally manufactured beauty products at a time when Indian women were dependent on foreign beauty supplies. This initiative was encouraged by the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to prevent foreign exchange on imports. Lakme became a trusted brand by understanding and catering to the specific beauty needs of Indian women, positioning itself as an expert in Indian beauty trends. Over the years, it expanded its product line to include a wide range of cosmetics and beauty services. They reinforced their market position through strategic branding initiatives like the Lakme Fashion Week, which linked the brand to high-profile fashion events. Furthermore, Lakme invested in consumer research to align its marketing strategies with evolving consumer preferences and ensure customer satisfaction, thereby consistently maintaining its competitive edge in the Indian cosmetics market .

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