Natural Hair Trends and Industry Opportunities

Posted on August 15, 2022August 15, 2022 by Sara Keli

The hair care sector is a shining example of the natural revolution sweeping the personal care industry. Expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% to 2027, the global natural hair care industry is booming.

Consumer purchasing is shifting towards products that are better for hair and the planet. From the ingredients in the products to the social purpose behind the brands, there are several factors driving industry growth.

Here are four key trends you need to be conscious of when choosing natural hair care products to stock on your shelves.

Ingredients: what’s in and what’s out

Ingredient-savvy consumers care just as much about what’s not in their hair products as what’s in them.

So, what’s out? Skin and hair wellness brand ACURE uses no parabens, sulphates, formaldehyde, paraffin or mineral oil in their products. Instead, they use powerful combinations of super nutrients to create products that deliver results.

Dr Organic is another brand with a focus on effective natural hair care ingredients. Free from synthetic ingredients and other nasties, the products are crafted from supercharged botanicals and bioactive extracts ethically sourced from around the world.

Wholesale natural hair products distributors

Meeting demand with innovation

It’s not enough to simply switch to natural hair care products… the products also have to work. Innovation is key.

Giovanni is an early innovator in natural hair care. Founded in 1979, the products are salon quality while using the most natural ingredients possible. Cruelty free and vegan friendly, the products are high-performance while being gentle on the scalp. Giovanni continues to innovate with new ranges that address different hair concerns, such as frizz, hydration and repair.

Hair care doesn’t just include shampoo, conditioner and styling products. Hair brushes made from natural and sustainable materials like the luxury-grade Bass Brushes are popular with conscious consumers. The biodegradable Bio-flex Detangling Brushes feature handles made from corn, cassava and potato starch.

The role of sustainability

Research suggests that sustainability and social purpose are the next big drivers in natural hair care. Specifically, consumers preferencing hair care products that are cruelty free and use sustainably-sourced ingredients. Recycled and recyclable packaging are also top concerns.

Ethique operates through direct trade to ensure the honest fair trade of the ingredients used to produce the Solid Bars and Concentrates. Their ingredients are sustainably-produced, biodegradable, palm oil and cruelty free. Plus, Ethique packaging is home-compostable.

For social enterprise Alaffia, profits are reinvested into empowerment projects in the communities that produce the Alaffia range. The projects include maternal health, education, environmental sustainability and the donation of eyeglasses. The cruelty-free products are handcrafted using effective, safe and natural ingredients.

Catering to the male consumer

Male interest in personal care products, grooming and hair care is on the up.

Purpose-driven and B-corp-certified brand STUFF is a fuss-free alternative for men. STUFF ticks consumer boxes with cruelty-free products and recyclable bottles made from recycled plastics. The brand also champions healthy masculinity and supports men’s mental health through a not-for-profit, The Man Cave.

Natural hair care that sells

As wholesale natural hair products distributors, we stock these natural hair care brands and many more. We make it easy for you to do business, with 24/7 online ordering through our online shop and a friendly sales team available on 1800 787 904. If you’re a new Unique Health Products customer, you can register your account here.

Spotlight on Eco-friendly Cleaning Products

Posted on July 26, 2022July 27, 2022 by Sara Keli

Today’s consumers are more eco-conscious than ever before. Just like their food and beauty product choices, they’re clearing out their cleaning cupboards and making eco switches that are better for the planet.

According to IRi research, products with environmental claims on the packaging have seen 4.5 times faster growth than traditional alternatives. Plant-based, compostable and biodegradable claims perform particularly well.

In the dish soap category alone, 25% of consumers place eco-friendliness as a top consideration when choosing which brand to purchase.

The Finder 2022 Green Consumer report also found that 69% of consumers are either somewhat or extremely concerned about their carbon footprint. This, combined with the growing plastic waste concern, points to what IRi refers to as a “refill revolution”. Consumers are choosing products like concentrates and large refill bottles that help to reduce waste.

Cater to the growing eco-clean market with these top eco-friendly cleaning products. They’re effective, kind to the planet, fresh smelling and are exactly what your customers are searching for.

Earthwise

One of the early players in the environmentally-friendly cleaning market, Earthwise has been providing green cleaning solutions for over 50 years. The naturally effective products are made in New Zealand with plant-based ingredients.

From the kitchen to the laundry, bathroom and general household cleaning, Earthwise also considers their products’ packaging. They are committed to making 100% of packaging reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025.

With no silicones, parabens, phthalates or mineral oils, the range is cruelty free and made with plant-powered surfactants and essential oils.

Ethique

Climate positive since March 2021, Ethique is globally popular for their range of top-selling Solid Bars. In recent years, Ethique has expanded into the cleaning market with Household Concentrates.

These mix easily with boiling water and can be stored in any reusable bottle. A single concentrate saves six single-use containers from landfill.

The ingredients in all Ethique products are sustainably produced, biodegradable, palm oil free, plant based and cruelty free.

Bon Ami

A trusted brand for more than 130 years, Bon Ami is a nostalgic favourite that delivers an effective clean.

Free from harsh chemicals, Bon Ami Powder Cleanser can be used on multiple household surfaces, including countertops, bathtubs and sinks.

ecyo

Founded by three Australian sisters, ecyo Dissolvable Pods are a convenient and effective waste-free solution.

Housed in recyclable and compostable packaging, the super concentrated Pods dissolve in minutes when combined with water. The formulas are guided by science, using plant-based, cruelty-free ingredients.

A simple alternative to reduce plastic waste, minimise carbon footprint and lessen waste anxiety, ecyo is available in a range of different formulations for the kitchen, bathroom and general cleaning.

Koala Eco

Made using Australian botanicals, Koala Eco products are biodegradable, natural, non-toxic, plant based and hypoallergenic.

Free from any nasties, including sulphates, synthetic fragrances and petrochemicals, Koala Eco products are developed in collaboration with specialist chemists. Many of the products can also be purchased in a 1L refill size, catering to the “refill revolution”.

The modern packaging features hand-illustrated labels and is made from 100% recyclable PET. The products look as good as they smell and are just as effective too.

Planet Luxe

Planet Luxe creates safe cleaning products that are free from harmful chemicals, vegan friendly, biodegradable and greywater safe.

The formulations are made using natural botanical blends, with ingredients like Australian lemon myrtle, rose geranium, bergamot and eucalyptus.

The eco-luxe range includes kitchen, bathroom and laundry cleaning products and comes in simple and stylish packaging.

Clean up your cleaning aisle

At Unique Health Products, we distribute a wide range of eco-cleaning brands and products. You can order online, anytime in our online shop or call our friendly sales team on 1800 787 904 If you’re a new Unique Health Products customer, you can register your account here.

3 Natural Product Packaging Trends

Posted on June 28, 2022August 4, 2022 by Sara Keli

Packaging matters. It’s often the first impression a customer will have of a product. And it can mean the difference between a product flying off the shelves… or a hidden gem sitting stagnant.

Understanding the trends in natural product packaging can help you to merchandise your store to maximise the sales opportunity. We share our insights into what’s hot in natural product packaging and why it matters to you.

Green… and red and pink and blue…

Traditionally when people think of natural product packaging, they think green and brown. How else will people know a product is natural if the packaging isn’t green or brown?

The industry and its consumers have come a long way. Consumers are more sophisticated and educated about the benefits of natural health products. The evolution of natural product packaging reflects this shift.

Amazing Oils is one of the latest natural health brands to modernise their packaging with a bright and bold new look. Featuring colour blocks of red, blue and purple, the packaging is easy to read and presents a streamlined look on the shelf.

As you browse the shelves of our online shop, you’ll see other brands such as Ethique, Happy Way and Eden Healthfoods that are all embracing the rainbow as leaders in the industry.

With more and more retail stores moving towards the integration of natural health products alongside non-health products, including major grocery chains such as Coles, this packaging trend only serves to help natural products stand out more on shelves, boosting your sales in the process.

Calling out health and natural claims

If an objection to integration is “how will people be able to identify natural health products if they are scattered through the aisles?” The answer is in the packaging.

Despite their ability to now blend somewhat seamlessly into the shelves alongside regular grocery or beauty products, natural products have a powerful tool in their arsenal. And they’re not afraid to use it.

That is, they can use their packaging to be clear about their ingredients, sustainability or natural health claims.

The packaging of ACURE skin and hair care products is simple and clean. The colour block design draws the eye of the consumer… and then they see the words “100% vegan”. Right on the front of the packaging.

It’s a similar case for Keto Naturals. While the name of the brand does give away the keto-friendly nature of the products, the front of the packaging showcases the benefits of the products – keto and paleo friendly, vegan and gluten free among them.

Macro Mike is another example of a brand that doesn’t hesitate to use prime real estate on packaging to highlight the gut-friendly, 100% natural, plant-based benefits (just to name a few) of their products.

The rising number of vegans and consumers who care about what’s inside the products they buy are looking for these claims.

Sustainable natural product packaging trend

The sustainability of the packaging

According to the Trivium Packaging 2021 Global Buying Green Report, the sustainability of product packaging is a huge concern for consumers.

The report found that:

54% of consumers factor the sustainability of product packaging into their buying decisions
52% of consumers actively seek information on the sustainability of product packaging
73% of consumers are willing to dig deeper into their pockets to pay more for eco-friendly packaging

This is where natural product packaging has the upper hand. Like the recycled plastic packaging of Koala Eco. Or the compostable packaging of Ethique. Or the recycled cardboard tubes that house the PATCH bandages.

Brands in the natural health industry have been considering and innovating the sustainability of their packaging for many years. This is a trend that has been driven by conscious brands answering to consumer demand.

Stock your shelves with on-trend natural health products

At Unique Health Products we stock some of the biggest natural health brands in Australia. We are proud of the innovation and leading market position of our brands and the way they drive natural product packaging trends.

You can purchase from hundreds of brands online with us 24/7, or call our friendly sales team on 1800 787 904. If you don’t have a wholesale account with us yet, you can register for one here.

Naturally Good 2022

Posted on May 27, 2022August 4, 2022 by Sara Keli

When it comes to products that are better for people and the planet, Naturally Good is the place to discover the latest trends and innovations. From better-for-you snacks to personal care, eco-beauty, supplements and more, you’ll find them all.

Naturally Good is the only dedicated natural, healthy and organic expo in Australia. And you don’t need to be an established retailer to benefit from what’s on offer. If you’re just starting to dip your toes into the possibilities of the natural health category, you’ll walk away with new connections and new ideas.

Find Unique at Naturally Good

Held at the ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour from 6-7 June 2022, Unique Health Products is proud to once again be part of this influential industry event.

We’ll be showcasing a selection of the 4,000+ products we range from leading Australian and global brands. Importantly, Naturally Good is about you and how we can make it easier for you to do business. More than 24/7 online ordering and streamlined nationwide distribution, with Unique you have access to a team of passionate industry experts.

Come and chat to us about how we can help you to pinpoint the products and brands that your customers are searching for on your shelves. Dale and the team will be at stand F32, from 10am-5pm on both days, energised and ready to help you set up, update or reset your natural health offering.

Meet the makers

At Naturally Good, we’ll also be joined by a lineup of some of our incredible suppliers. They will be there to give you insights into their products and their brand. They will also have samples available so you can trial the products for yourself.

Over the two day event, we’ll have a rotating roster of suppliers showcasing their products. If you’re visiting on both days, be sure to pop back into our stall as there’ll be new things to see, people to meet and products to try.

Make sure you follow us on Instagram for updates on our Meet the Maker Schedule and live news from Naturally Good 2022.

Who can you expect to meet at Naturally Good?

Connect with the people behind brands like Ethique, LEDA and Health Guru. We’ll also have some snack sampling on offer from Keto Naturals and Boostball. The teams from Happy Way, Botanika Blends, Protein Supplies Australia and Macro Mike will also be there to talk about how they’re shaking up the protein industry.

Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to sample products and learn more about best-selling brands CLIF, Low Carb Life and PBCo.

See you at Naturally Good 2022

We would love to see you at Naturally Good 2022. If you want to join us, you’ll need to register for your free ticket here.

If you can’t make it, you can browse and order from our range of hundreds of health and wellness brands in our online store 24/7 or call our friendly sales team on 1800 787 904. If you’re new to Unique, you can register your wholesale account here.

5 Natural Beauty Trends for 2022

Posted on April 28, 2022August 16, 2022 by Sara Keli

In their Future of Beauty Report, Nielsen identified natural beauty and skincare as key drivers for the future of the industry. Mintel called it a “Beauty Eco-lution” that is driven by eco-ethical and conscious purchasing decisions.

But the natural beauty market is as diverse as it is fast-growing. It has almost twice the predicted CAGR of the beauty market as a whole! In the plethora of products available, there are key natural beauty trends that are driving the growth.

Here are the five key natural beauty trends you should know to have your finger on the pulse for your eco-conscious customers.

1) CRUELTY FREE

According to What’s New in Healthy Products, consumers are starting to consider vegan and cruelty-free credentials as a baseline requirement for skincare brands.

ACURE is a brand that is leading the market in highly innovative and effective skincare that also adheres to its vegan and cruelty-free values. For ACURE this means no animal-testing, ever, and drawing on powerful super nutrients for skin wellness.

From facial scrubs to cleansing gels, face masks, serums, moisturisers, treatments, oils and more, every product in the ACURE range is 100% vegan.

2) ZERO WASTE

Plastic packaging – and more specifically plastic packaging winding up in landfill – is an undeniable issue facing our planet. Since 1960, the amount of plastic packaging used in the USA has increased over 120 times. While this figure isn’t limited to the beauty industry, globally, the beauty and personal care industry accounts for more than AUD $30 billion in plastic packaging sales.

Ethique is an impressively-sustainable brand playing an active role in reducing plastic packaging. The brand and products are 100% plastic free. In fact, Ethique has saved more than 13 million plastic bottles from entering landfill with their sustainable paper packaging, compostable storage containers, concentrates and solid beauty bars.

While Ethique started with shampoo bars, there are now solid face cleansers, solid face scrubs, solid face serums as well as a range of home, pet, hair and body care bars.

The latest addition to the Ethique range are highly-pigmented, long-lasting lipsticks in 100% home compostable tubes. The lipsticks have a satin finish in a range of on-trend colours and are also vegan friendly and palm oil free.

Another brand providing zero-waste solutions is Ever Eco. Their passion for eradicating single-use plastics started with the humble drinking straw and has now extended to include a beauty range. Beauty products include Reusable Bamboo Facial Pads to replace single-use cotton pads as well as Muslin Facial Cloths and Konjac Facial Sponges.

3) FUNCTIONAL AND BIOACTIVE INGREDIENTS

As much as functional ingredients are driving food trends, they are also a force in natural beauty trends.

Functional and bioactive ingredients have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and now the natural beauty industry is embracing the transformational power of nature.

Dr Organic doesn’t just use bioactive ingredients. Their ranges are each built around a powerful bioactive to ensure each product is truly functional. Whether it is Organic Aloe Vera, Activated Charcoal, Organic Hemp Oil, Organic Manuka Honey, Organic Reishi or one of the other many bioactives in the range, every product is designed to draw on the power of nature to get serious skin results.

ACURE is another brand that uses functional ingredients such as ashwagandha, reishi, holy basil, cordyceps and melatonin. Despite their use of quality, effective plant-based bioactives and functional ingredients, they are incredibly accessible and affordable for the everyday consumer looking to ‘clean up’ their beauty routine.

4) BEAUTY FROM WITHIN

In line with the food as medicine trend, there are an increasing number of beauty supplements focusing on nourishing skin from within with the idea that beauty starts on the inside.

Supercharged Food, known for their Love Your Gut powders and capsules, has recently launched the Earth and Sea Beauty Capsules. The capsules contain a blend of silica, iodine and iron. The 100% Australian-sourced silica may aid in collagen production for healthy hair, skin and nails. The iodine in the blend is sourced from Tasmanian kelp and may help to repair damaged skin cells.

Botanika Blends Beauty Potion is another option for beauty from within. Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients, including plant-based amino acids, vitamin C, probiotics, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and more – it’s designed to support the production of collagen in the body. The vegan-friendly Beauty Potion has a berry flavour and contains nothing artificial.

5) SHEET MASKS

Sheet masks are certainly a trend that is here to stay! The natural beauty trend for sheet masks is in natural and organic ingredients and eco-friendly materials.

Orgaid produced the world’s first organic sheet mask. They use the patented Ecoderma sheet mask fabric along with organic ingredients and scientifically-backed formulations to create highly-effective sheet masks.

The Orgaid sheet mask range includes three varieties – Anti-aging & Moisturizing, Vitamin C & Revitalizing and Greek Yogurt & Nourishing.

ACURE also has a range of sheet masks that target different skin concerns. Much like the rest of the range, the vegan-friendly masks are also free from parabens, sulphates, mineral oil, paraffins and formaldehyde.

BRING NATURAL BEAUTY TRENDS TO YOUR CUSTOMERS

You can find each of these brands and their trending products – plus many more – in the Unique Health Products online store. You can shop online 24/7, or call our friendly sales team on 1800 787 904. If you don’t yet have an account with us, you can register for one here.

Sustainable Gifts for Eco-minded Consumers

Posted on March 28, 2022August 4, 2022 by Rebecca Why

Current consumption habits carry a worrying environmental cost. To combat this, more and more shoppers are looking for ways to make eco-friendly choices, including buying sustainable gifts. They’re choosing to buy from eco-friendly brands, even if they have a higher price tag.

A global study, carried out by Ipsos found that Australians’ top three environmental issues are:

Global warming/climate change (44%)
Dealing with the amount of waste we generate (38%)
Future energy sources and supplies (35%)

Brands and businesses that embrace sustainability and innovate with eco-friendly products and packaging stand out from the competition.

The sustainable gifts category is a growing one. Particularly so for female shoppers who are looking for sustainable, ethical gifts for their loved ones and for themselves!

For retailers that want to increase their range of sustainable gifts, we’ve curated some of our top-selling brands. From Mother’s Day gifting to birthday gifts and everything in between, there are sustainable choices all year round.

Beauty and skincare

Eco luxe, eco beauty or eco friendly, whatever term is used, ‘eco’ is definitely ‘in’ when it comes to what consumers are choosing to put on their skin. Consumers are choosing clean, natural and organic beauty and skincare products which are also kind to the planet over other alternatives.

ACURE continues to stay on-trend, with in-demand products that are innovative and consumer-led. With different ranges for a variety of skincare concerns, they use the most potent, cutting edge, natural ingredients, to develop vegan skincare and hair care products that achieve visible results.

Regenerative brand Ethique has plenty of gifting options to choose from. The recyclable and compostable lip balm range makes perfect sustainable gifts. They also have dedicated gift bundles that each contain two top-selling solid bars plus the cute mini range, which are heart-shaped solid bars.

The range of soaps, candles, essential oils and skin and body care products from the Summer Salt Body range was made for gifting. With premium and attractive packaging, the products cater to a wide market of consumers who are interested in luxurious self-care and beauty.

Gifts for the home

The home gifting space has also had an eco makeover! From stylish reusables to 100% natural ingredients, the trend is a little bit luxe and a lot better for the planet.

For meaningful, sustainable gifts that gardeners will love, the Australian brand, Sow ‘n Sow, is the answer. The Gifts of Seeds are quick and easy to grow, and make a great impulse sale at the registers. There are also Pop Up Pots and Tags, all with beautiful illustrations and made using environmentally-friendly materials. These thoughtful gifts are lightweight for convenient mailing.

Luvin Life’s range of products includes Crystal Water Bottles which appeal to health-conscious water lovers. Delightfully presented in retail-ready cylinders, they make ideal presents and stand out on the shelves.

Ever Eco continues to innovate with the use of on-trend colours and packaging, creating gifting opportunities with a range of premium, yet affordable personal and home care products, such as the first reusable straw for the Australian market, which remains a top-seller today.

Baby and kids

Consumers are searching for more and more sustainable products as a solution to the huge problem of pollution and plastic ending up in landfill. Parents can help to raise eco-aware children by choosing environmentally friendly gifts, which are safe for the earth as well as safe for little ones.

An ideal gift for kids is the Arigato Box, a bento-style lunchbox that is made from sustainable materials and designed to be easy for kids to use. It’s BPA free, leakproof and available in three different eye-catching, coastal designs.

For fuss-free gifting, Little Mashies has a range of handy reusables and kid-friendly silicone mealware which is fun and on-trend, with neutral and pastel tone options available. The platter plates and bright silicone straws make great gift options for younger kids and babies.

Earthwise Nourish Hippo Baby is an affordable and adorable range of baby bathtime products. With brightly-coloured, recyclable packaging, the products are free from harsh chemicals and enriched with the goodness of goat’s milk for cleansing and nourishing the skin.

Foodie gifts

For those health-conscious consumers or those who are looking for edible fair trade or sustainable gifts, we have you covered.

New Zealand brand, Bennetto is known for its decadent, premium chocolate which is organic, fair trade and vegan. The packaging is biodegradable and compostable and beautifully illustrated, providing a striking presence on the shelf and making a mouth-watering gift!

Buddha Teas uses fresh, high-quality ingredients to explore nature’s best qualities and enrich the lives of tea drinkers everywhere. The fresh, organic herbs and tea leaves allow the teas to stay pure and natural and free from chemicals. Minimal processing and eco-friendly packaging help to honour and protect the earth with every tea they make.

Chocolate lovers will adore Vego’s Vegolino Fine Nougat Pralines which are made using high quality ingredients such as Italian hazelnuts and cocoa cream. Vego has crafted what they call the world’s tastiest chocolate which is dairy free, vegan, gluten free, certified organic and Fairtrade.

Sustainable gifts sorted

You can stock your shelves with a selection of sustainable gifts from the Unique Health Products online store. In addition to the above, we have hundreds more brands that cater to today’s sustainably-minded consumers. Shop online, anytime or call our friendly sales team on 1800 787 904. If you don’t have a wholesale account with us yet, you can register for one here.

Celebrating Female Founders for International Women’s Day 2022

Posted on March 8, 2022August 4, 2022 by Sara Keli

#BreakTheBias. That’s the theme for International Women’s Day 2022. When we do break down bias and stereotypes, we can move towards gender equality.

Research by Boston Consulting Group has shown that boosting the number of female entrepreneurs to be in line with male entrepreneurship would boost the Australian economy. That boost would be something to the tune of between $71 and $135 billion.¹Interestingly, there is also a known multiplier effect that happens when businesses have a diverse supplier strategy in place.²

Across the world, women-owned businesses make up approximately 25-33% of all privately-owned businesses.³ In Australia, roughly 38% of businesses have female founders.⁴

At Unique Health Products, we’re proud that many of the brands we stock are women-owned businesses with female founders. We know that when we collectively, as a business community and individuals, support women-owned businesses, we’re making an investment in the economy.

This International Women’s Day we want to shine the spotlight on a handful of the female founders we partner with and showcase the incredible brands they’ve built.

Ethique

Brianne West founded Ethique in 2012 when there wasn’t as much concern about the impact of plastics in the environment. In the early days of Ethique, she was mixing formulas in her kitchen. Now, Ethique sells concentrated, plastic-free Solid Bars for beauty and home in 24 different markets around the world. Through it all she has stayed true to her values as a leader in regenerative business.

Plantasy Foods

Monica Topliss and Fran Leman are the female founders behind plant-based wholefood brand, Plantasy Foods. After experiencing their own frustrations at the lack of quality ‘free from’ alternatives available, they joined forces to produce a range of healthy, plant-based convenience foods. This includes the top-selling Mac ‘n Cheez.

The Goodnight Co.

Fighting their own exhaustion while trying to balance work and family life is what led best friends, Shea Morrison and Danielle Knight, to start The Goodnight Co. They wanted to help others make the most of the sleep they do get to be the best version of themselves and now sell a range of Essential Oils, Diffusers and Homoeopathic Drops for sleep.

Anna’s

A popular product for women’s wellbeing, Anna’s Wild Yam Cream was originally founded by a husband and wife duo. But in 2020, Harmony Rutledge, an avid Anna’s user and brand advocate, took over the reins of the brand. Harmony is continuing the brand vision of supporting and connecting women.

Turban Chopsticks

After struggling to easily find the flavours of her Malaysian Chinese upbringing, Mei Yong started Turban Chopsticks. She was a busy professional and spotted a gap for a convenient range of Curry Pastes, Chutneys and Jams that made cooking authentic flavours at home much easier.

The Broth Sisters

Sisters, Linda Vantaggiato and Jane Crawford, started The Broth Sisters to recreate the broth recipes of their ‘farm to table’ upbringing. The business has grown from a desire to bring their family recipes to the community and is driven by a passion for health and nutrition. The range includes innovative Vegetable Sipping Broth Bags and Stock Concentrates.

Summer Salt Body

Sarah Howe started making salt scrubs to sell at the local markets as a hobby but it quickly grew into a fully fledged business – Summer Salt Body. In line with her vegan values, all of the Summer Salt Body products – including Essential Oils, Salt Soaks and Crystal Soaps – are vegan and made with 100% natural ingredients.

Bennetto

Lucy Bennetto went from high school drama teacher to chocolatier when she started luxe, fairtrade chocolate brand, Bennetto. Driven by a desire to not only produce decadent, delicious chocolates, Lucy also strives to do good for the planet and the people that work along the Bennetto supply chain.

Koja

Kate Johansson started KOJA over her frustration at “health food” that was packed with fillers, preservatives and other nasties. So she set about “making healthy simple” with a range of plant-based, nutrient-dense wholefood snacks with no hidden ingredients, nasties or excess sugar.

Mingle

When female founder, Jordyn Evans, launched Mingle, she wanted to shake up the spice aisle. She has certainly done that and then some, taking her no-nasties approach to the sauce aisle too! The bright and colourful range of Meal Bases, Natural Seasoning Blends and Better For You Sauces are giving new life to home cooking.

Supercharged Food

Lee Holmes is an accredited Clinical Nutritionist, wholefoods chef and yoga and meditation teacher. She’s also the founder of Supercharged Food where she helps people make healthy lifestyle changes with a range of naturopathic products, including the Love Your Gut Powder and Negative Ion Candles.

The Monday Food Co.

When Indi Sutton started The Monday Food Co., she drew on her background in naturopathy and raw food production. With a passion for gut health, she initially created a range of nourishing, small batch Granola. This has since been joined by Keto Cake and Bread Mixes as well as a Keto Mug Cake Mix.

Wotnot

In 2004, Sinead Roberts and Sioned Guard joined forces to create Wotnot Naturals. As mothers, they wanted to combine their passions for caring for their families and their environment. The range includes eco-friendly baby, beauty and suncare products that are loved by mums, bubs and the planet.

Charlie Societé

Natalie Arendale and Alanah Nuzzo created Charlie Societé after two years of development for the perfect natural-looking tan. They only use the highest quality natural and organic ingredients for a lightweight and nourishing formula that leaves skin with a sun-kissed glow.

Support female founders and women-owned businesses

You’ll find all of these brands and many more in our online store. You can shop online, anytime or call our friendly sales team on 1800 787 904. Not yet registered with us? Sign up here!

Sources:

1. SMH, 2019.

2. EthniFacts, 2021.

3. EY, 2021.

4. Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, 2021.

Understanding the Modern Plant-based Consumer

Posted on February 18, 2022August 4, 2022 by Sara Keli

According to the EAT-Lancet Commission report, healthy diets with more plant-based foods will be key to ensuring sustainable food systems and a healthier planet and people.

It’s no surprise then that we’re seeing a significant growth in the vegan, vegetarian and flexitarian markets. Understanding the modern plant-based consumer and what is driving their adoption of plant-based diets has never been more important for those in retail and product development.

Who is the plant-based consumer?

Research estimates that 60% of global consumers eat plant-based meals at least once a week.¹ Other reports reveal that across the world, there are now more than 65% of consumers who are eating more plant-based food and beverages.² In Australia, 45% of consumers are actively trying to reduce the amount of animal products they eat.³

Despite this increase, there isn’t one single definition of a plant-based consumer. Younger people (aged 15-44) are more likely to report that they are trying to follow a plant-based diet.⁴

According to 2021 consumer research, the most common reason people choose to follow a plant-based diet is that it makes them feel healthier. This is followed by digestive health and fitness. Environmental concerns and animal rights are the sixth and eighth most common reasons respectively.⁵This is consistent with other research findings that consumers are generally more focused on adopting healthier lifestyles for the long-term.⁶

The trends driving plant-based eating

It’s important to understand why consumers are opting for more flexitarian and plant-based diets. It’s also important to have a good picture of the trends underpinning the shift.

The simple answer is choice. It is easier than ever before to make healthier and tastier plant-based choices. Half of Australian restaurants now cater to vegan diets.² There is also significant innovation in plant-based meat and plant-based pantry staples.

In fact, consumers are demanding new product development and a greater proliferation of plant-based ingredients, with greater interest in areas such as sustainable protein crops.⁷

Interestingly, according to IRI, it’s the mention of plant ingredients that is more appealing to consumers than ‘vegan’ or ‘vegetarian’ labels. Packaging and promotions that callout that ‘you’re getting more plants, more nutrients’ are the way forward.²

There is also an element of plant-curiosity that is driving the uptick. 41% of consumers report having tried plant-based alternatives because they wanted to try something new.⁸ Consumers are more adventurous than in the past, seeking out new flavours and ingredients to enhance their diet and lifestyle.

Capitalising on the plant-based trend

Where to next? How can you make the most of the plant-based boom?

First, you need to consider the brands you stock on your shelves. Consider some of these leading plant-based brands in your search:

Energy and snack bars from CLIF Bar with all plant-based ingredients and a priority on supported agriculture.
Vegan jerky from Noble Jerky with more than 14g of plant-based protein in each packet.
A range of innovative protein powders, baking mixes and more from Macro Mike, which was founded with the vision of making the best tasting vegan protein on the planet.
Easy-to-use and minimally processed vegan sauce alternatives and the top-selling Mac ‘N Cheez range from Plantasy Foods.
Vegan chocolate and chocolate spreads from European chocolatier, Vego.

In the switch to plant-based eating, many consumers also consider their broader lifestyle habits. Adding plant-based home and self-care products, such as Ethique Solid Bars, the Koala Eco cleaning and personal care range or ACURE skincare, broadens your appeal to these consumers.

Cater to your plant-based customers

At Unique Health Products, we’re proud to stock many of the leading plant-based brands, both from within Australia and abroad. We have hundreds of brands and thousands of products that plant-based consumers are searching for. You can purchase our range online 24/7, or call our friendly sales team on 1800 787 904. If you don’t have a wholesale account with us yet, you can register for one here.

Sources:

1. Innova Market Insights, 2021.

2. IRI, 2022.

3. Inside FMCG, 2022.

4. Euromonitor, 2021.

5. Euromonitor, 2021.

6. FMCG Gurus, 2022.

7. Innova Market Insights, 2021.

8. Specialty Food Association, 2020.

Why is Supply Chain Sustainability so Important?

Posted on January 25, 2022August 4, 2022 by Sara Keli

It’s a naive view to think that a business only needs to be concerned with the sustainability actions that happen within their four walls. Being in business today means not just having oversight of the environmental and ethical impacts across every part and stage of the business but also managing those impacts.

So, why is supply chain sustainability so important? Research suggests that for consumer products, the supply chain may amount to as much as 90% of the environmental impact.¹ For businesses that want to proactively manage their ethical, social and environmental footprint the supply chain is a highly significant part of the story.

Supply chain sustainability issues

Research on Google Trends data shows that searches for terms like “sustainable products”, “eco-friendly” and “environmentally friendly” have all seen a recent, sustained increase.² Today’s consumers demand action and transparency. Research shows that as many as 60% of people are willing to pay more for eco-friendly products. But these consumers also expect brands to come to the table in driving serious change.³

That’s not to mention many of the other benefits of a focus on sustainability, such as cost-savings, better financial results and enhanced innovation.³ When you have a sustainable supply chain, you can make the most of the benefits of sustainability by truly integrating your efforts across every touchpoint within your business, either direct or indirect.

One of the biggest risks from supply chain sustainability issues arises when you don’t have complete visibility. You might be sure of what’s happening within your own operations but do you have that same level of visibility with your suppliers? Or their suppliers?

In one study, it was found that while many businesses had visibility of their first-tier suppliers, that is the suppliers they work directly with, they didn’t have the same for lower-tier suppliers.⁴

How to improve supply chain sustainability

For retailers, there are absolutely considerations around limiting resource consumption and waste. But there is also a need to stock brands that share the same sustainability values as yours.

Many of the brands we stock at Unique Health products are leading the way in sustainability and ensuring transparency with their own suppliers. Here are just a few examples.

Ethique

As a B corp, Ethique is a brand with sustainability at the heart of everything they do. They have direct trade partnerships with producers where possible to ensure fair prices and environmental protection. They offset 120% of their carbon emissions and use cruelty-free and vegan ingredients.

CLIF Bar

CLIF Bar models their sustainability on the premise of thinking like a tree. That is, they use organic and sustainable ingredients, use renewable energy and eco-friendly packaging and transport their products in transportation that doesn’t pollute. This is part of their commitment to reducing their environmental footprint in everything they do.

Alaffia

Built on the fair trade philosophy, Alaffia offers equal environment opportunities, pays a fair local price or wage along with healthy and safe working conditions, and engages in environmentally sustainable practices. They also reinvest product sales into empowerment projects in the local communities where they source their ingredients and make their products.

Earthwise

Since their beginnings in the late 1960s, Earthwise has been committed to providing eco-friendly cleaning products and looking for innovative ways to reduce their environmental impact across the entire product life cycle. Their biodegradable, plant-based ingredients are grey water and septic tank safe, and packaged in recyclable packaging, much of which is made from 75% recycled plastic.

PATCH

Recognised as one of the Best for the World B Corps in Environment in 2021, PATCH considers the impact of their everyday footprint across all areas of the production and supply of their Bamboo Bandages. The compostable bandages are made from sustainable bamboo with no latex and 100% compostable packaging.

Boost your supply chain sustainability

We stock these leading brands and hundreds more across the natural health, fair trade, eco-friendly and organic categories. Each brand has their own sustainability story and values that can resonate with your customers and help improve your supply chain sustainability. Shop online with us 24/7, or call our friendly sales team on 1800 787 904. If you don’t have a wholesale account with us yet, you can register for one here.

Sources:

1. McKinsey, 2016.

2. JP Morgan, 2021.

3. GWI., 2021.

4. Forbes, 2020.

5. Harvard Business Review, 2020.