Annual Report 2025.2026

supports. advises. represents.

IKW, The German Cosmetic, Toiletry, Perfumery and Detergent Association, supports, advises, and represents more than 465 member companies in the beauty and home care sector. We answer questions related to personal care, cosmetics, detergents and cleaning products and we are available as a reliable contact for all societal groups.

Situation

In an interview, Gabriele Hässig, IKW President, and Thomas Keiser, IKW Director General, explain the economic situation of the industry and the current challenges facing member companies.

To the Interview

Economic development

In 2025, a well-groomed appearance and a clean home continue to matter. A total of 35.6 billion euros was spent on beauty and home care products at home and abroad — once again a record figure. Growth was driven primarily by the domestic market, whilst exports declined. The economic situation for companies therefore remains challenging in 2026.

Further Details

Medium-sized business activities

85 per cent of IKW member companies are SMEs. IKW places a special focus on advising and promoting them.

To the activities

Activities

Acting Sustainably – Today and Tomorrow

Sustainability means meeting today's needs without compromising the opportunities of future generations. The industry embraces this responsibility through concrete measures and continuous innovation along the entire value chain.

Sustainability activities

IKW Studies – Guidance in Turbulent Times

Studies commissioned by the IKW reveal which trends are shaping people's lives and the contribution that beauty and household care makes to orientation, stability, and quality of life.

To the studies

In Dialogue – For the Industry

The IKW advises and supports its member companies through a wide range of event formats, including conferences, seminars, briefings, and workshops. It represents the industry in dialogue with authorities, policymakers, the media, consumers, and other industries.

Event insights

Beauty Care

Cosmetic products not only make life more beautiful. Many products contribute to health and well-being. Whether it's toothpaste, shampoo and face cream or deodorant, hair gel and sunscreen - cosmetics come into contact with the human body and are used by most people on a daily basis. This proximity creates an intensive need for information, which IKW fulfils openly and transparently.

To the Beauty Care topics

Home Care

A clean home and well-groomed clothes make a decisive contribution to quality of life. Above all, it is about feeling comfortable within your own four walls and in your own (second) skin. In addition, the aspects of health, value retention and sustainability play an important role in home and clothing care.

To the Home Care topics

About IKW

Here you can find out more about facts & figures, tasks, objectives and range of services, as well as the structure, cooperations, member companies and employees of IKW.

Information on IKW