Join us for an exciting discussion on the future of the blue economy and its transformative impact on the beauty industry. In this episode, we’re joined by Diego Lapetina, founder of Blue Economy News, a new voice on marine sustainability and innovation; Margarita Sidorova, founder of the Canadian Cosmetic Cluster and Beauty By The Sea, bringing expertise in aquaculture and marine-derived ingredients; and Courtney Howell, founder of 7 Fathoms Skincare, a brand redefining beauty through sustainably sourced seaweed and ocean-inspired formulations.
​
Together, we explore how marine resources are shaping sustainable practices in cosmetics, the opportunities for aquaculture to drive growth, and how brands can integrate blue economy principles into their supply chains. Dive deep into conversations about innovation, regenerative practices, and the role of collaboration in fostering a cleaner, more eco-conscious beauty industry. Whether you're a beauty enthusiast, sustainability advocate, or industry professional, this is a podcast you don’t want to miss!

Now let’s turn our attention to the luxury cosmetics market, where products typically retail for at least $30 - $80+ USD and are positioned to offer both exclusivity and a distinct lifestyle. Unlike mass-market items, luxury brands often thrive on niche appeal, catering to a select audience that values premium formulations, high-end branding, and unique experiences. In many cases, the goal is not simply to sell a product, but to immerse consumers in a refined world that justifies a higher price point. Within this space, numerous niches remain under explored. One example is the marine segment—specifically, yachting. Brands can do far more to address the needs of consumers who spend time on yachts by considering what they wear, when they wear it, and how a product might enhance that environment. Loro Piana, for instance, has illustrated how aligning products with specific lifestyles and activities can fuel luxury growth. When entering the luxury beauty market, it’s important to remember that the true top one-percent is relatively small. Targeting an upper-middle-class demographic with a desire for exclusivity can be more lucrative, as long as the brand maintains its high-end image. Ultimately, success in luxury depends on understanding consumers’ lifestyles—and designing products that elevate their experiences, whether on a yacht or simply in everyday life. The global luxury market, valued at an estimated $360 billion by 2026[1], caters to consumers who seek exclusive experiences and premium products. While those at the very top of the wealth pyramid can purchase whatever they desire without hesitation, the majority of luxury spending actually comes from upper-middle-class individuals who often stretch their budgets—sometimes to the point of financial strain—to access this elevated lifestyle. This dynamic can contribute to periodic economic downturns when large numbers of consumers default on credit.

Within the luxury sector, the marine and aviation industries present significant opportunities for premium cosmetics and wellness products:

Tunbridge Wells, UK – The Upcycled Beauty Company are pleased to announce the launch of the 2025 Zero Waste Beauty Report published in collaboration with Covalo. Wasting products is a waste of resources. This includes materials and energy for production, transportation, and end-of-life disposal, which all contribute to carbon
dioxide (CO2) emissions. Our excessive use of finite resources and disposable culture also fuels global biodiversity loss. But it’s not all bad news. The zero waste movement is empowering companies from all corners of the globe to take action, including forward-thinking beauty and personal care brands. Instead of sticking with the linear take-make-waste model, they’re embracing a circular economy, where resources are kept in circulation and waste is eliminated or minimized at every stage.

Typically, this is the time of year when everyone trots out the old “new year, new me” mantra, armed with a mix of ambitious and borderline impossible resolutions. But this year feels... different. People seem tired. The lingering effects of COVID, escalating political instability—the list of things that go wrong ever growing have really taken a toll. So far in 2025 it is more of a new year let’s see how everything goes – slowly. Easy step by easy step. This year, I sense we’re on the brink of a significant commercial slowdown. Take EMSSM or Economically Marginalized Small-to-Medium-sized Businesses (the new word for SMEs because why not confuse people with new acronyms). It feels like every layer of society is under strain. In Canada, for instance, the recent postal strike during the holiday season didn’t help, and inflation continues to be a part of our lives. Let’s be honest, when prices rise faster than paychecks, what’s the point? Isn’t it better to lower prices? And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Political instability isn’t going anywhere, and yet we all keep plodding along. I’ve always thought small businesses are some of the toughest endeavors out there—many of you can probably relate. They’re taxed the most, work the hardest, receive the least support, and yet still manage to produce so much.