WPI Survey on vegan cosmetics
Survey on vegan cosmetics conducted by Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI)
The vegan cosmetics market is undeniable a dynamic one and projected to grow exponentially over the next decade. This growth is representative of veganism, a lifestyle movement that has become increasingly popular due to its favorable ethical, environmental, and health considerations. Despite this trend, the general consumer awareness of vegan cosmetics often remains uncertain due to impacting factors that influence their judgment such as product availability, social acceptance, and financial variability. However, the question that arises is: how could consumer awareness of vegan cosmetics impact market trends for these products?
The Hellenic Vegetarian Association (HellasVeg), which actively works to promote and inform consumers about new developments in the plant-based lifestyle, conducted research on the dynamics of vegan cosmetics in the Greek market, specifically in Thessaloniki. This research was being carried out in collaboration with students from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI).
The aim of this study is to determine the level of consumer awareness regarding vegan cosmetics in the Thessaloniki market, in order to further enhance their perception of these products and address the challenges that affect the vegan cosmetics market.
USEFUL INFOGRAPHICS
Snapshots from WPI Students' Survey in Thessaloniki
Survey among consumers and cosmetics retailers
Cosmetic retail stores, both in the center of Thessaloniki and in the Mediterranean Cosmos shopping mall, served as the main field of research activity for the students. There, they had the opportunity to interact with consumers and store owners, who participated in the survey by responding to structured questionnaires on consumer habits.
Survey of professionals involved in the cosmetics industry
In order to capture the perspectives of professionals in the cosmetics and beauty industry, the students conducted interviews with dermatologists, podiatrists, retailers, and manufacturers. They also visited the professionals’ workplaces in person.
Snapshots from the presentation of the study results
The students presented their research findings at the Monasty Hotel, in front of an audience, and drew useful conclusions regarding the consumer behaviors of Thessaloniki residents and the current dynamics of the vegan cosmetics market. Subsequently, they proposed their own solutions focused on the awareness and promotion of vegan cosmetics.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute's Team
We would like to thank the students from Worcester Polytechnic University — Christopher Adzima, Douglas Blinn, Savannah Miller, and Fisal Qutubzad — for their valuable contribution to the study, as well as Professors Fred Looft and Linda Looft for their scientific guidance.
