Fragrance Creators Association (FCA) hosted its 2024 Annual Meeting on October 23, 2024, at Stone House in Warren, New Jersey. Inspired by the legacy of Robert Bedoukian, the meeting’s theme, “Benevolence,” reinforced the industry’s commitment to integrity, compassion, and scientific excellence.
The event opened with the Chairman’s address by FCA Board Co-Chairs Cynthia Reichard, President of Arylessence, and Robert Weinstein, formerly of Robertet USA. They highlighted that 2024 marked a year of unprecedented strength and unity for the association. They emphasized how FCA’s forward-looking initiatives—particularly in digital labeling—have positioned the fragrance value chain for a future of greater innovation, consumer education, and environmental sustainability.
In line with FCA’s Responsible Industry Stewardship Program, the association led efforts to advance digital labeling of fragrance allergens as an alternative to on-pack disclosures across all product categories, with an immediate focus on cosmetics due to the upcoming FDA rulemaking on fragrance allergen labeling. FCA has engaged a diverse array of industry, governmental, consumer, and environmental stakeholders, actively seeking their input to identify and address potential gaps or unintended consequences. This collaborative approach ensures a comprehensive and responsible path forward.
“This is a proactive, long-term stewardship effort aimed at delivering positive impacts for people, perfume, and the planet,” said Farah K. Ahmed, FCA President & CEO. “We believe offering a digital labeling option in place of on-pack disclosures can increase consumer access to meaningful fragrance information while giving companies the flexibility to innovate and reduce packaging waste. As we advance this effort, we remain committed to active and inclusive stakeholder engagement to ensure we guide the industry responsibly.”
Digital labeling was a central focus during the business session, where Ahmed also highlighted other key accomplishments. The association:
- Advanced EPA approval pathways for new fragrance chemicals, potentially delivering billions of dollars in economic impact while increasing global access to newer, greener fragrance chemistries.
- Ensured state legislation that aligns with sound science and creates pathways for companies to bring pro-consumer and pro-environmental innovation to market.
- Championed the restoration of full R&D expensing in Congress, to support continued innovation, enhance U.S. competitiveness, and ensure that companies can fully invest in new product development.
- Expanded research on the wellbeing benefits of fragrance in household and cosmetic products to enhance consumer appreciation of the everyday benefits fragrance delivers.
- Broadened The Fragrance Conservatory to enhance consumer education on fragrance safety and transparency.
- Grew FCA’s Policy Insights Program, a bespoke data analytics program.
Ahmed also noted increased member engagement and welcomed a diverse array of new companies to the association.
As the association looks ahead to 2025, it recognizes a critical, transformational moment for the fragrance industry, where an intensifying regulatory and geopolitical landscape demands greater adaptability and strategic focus. As such, FCA is shifting from solidifying its leadership position to embracing a strategy of accelerated growth, aimed at driving pro-innovation impacts in the years to come. Ahmed noted, “With a proven track record of delivering meaningful results, we are poised to expand FCA’s impact, mitigate emerging risks, and ensure the industry thrives amid evolving challenges—unlocking new opportunities for responsible growth for our diverse array of member companies along the fragrance value chain.”
The meeting continued with expert-led panel discussions, including:
- “The Future of Digital Labeling,” led by Maria Burquest, Communications Consultant, exploring how digital solutions can transform consumer trust and engagement.
- MoCRA Update: Insights from Dr. Linda Katz (FDA) and Michael Varrone (Sidley Austin LLP) on the latest developments in the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act and the potential role of digital labeling.
- Political Outlook for 2025: A discussion on the evolving regulatory landscape with former Representative Phil English and former Senator Byron Dorgan (ArentFox Schiff).
Reichard shared, “This meeting is about more than celebrating our successes—it’s about aligning around shared goals and planting seeds for the future, like advancing digital labeling, that drive meaningful change. With a strong foundation of purpose, we look forward to leading the fragrance industry toward a future where what’s good for industry aligns with what’s good for consumers and the environment.”
Members confirmed the 2025 Board of Directors slate, with Cynthia Reichard continuing as Chair. Robert Weinstein, PhD, retired from the Board after 24 years of service. Reichard remarked, “It’s been a pleasure co-chairing with Bob, and I deeply appreciate his leadership and dedication to the industry.”
FCA welcomed new Board members: Arnaud Adrian (Robertet North America), Stephanie Trouiller (MANE), and Melanie Brown (The Lebermuth Company), along with earlier additions Scott Violette (DSM-Firmenich), John Trombley (Givaudan Fragrances), and Vivek Sirohi (Unilever).
The meeting concluded with a heartfelt tribute to the late Bob Bedoukian, celebrating his longstanding contributions to the fragrance industry. Serving on the FCA Board since 1995, Bedoukian’s leadership, integrity, and commitment to scientific excellence have shaped many of FCA’s initiatives, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire.
