#USA #New York #Northeastern University #Ready to Beauty #Black Beauty

READY to BEAUTY Launches Groundbreaking Study on Black Beauty

In a significant move for the beauty industry, READY to BEAUTY, the first global think tank dedicated to multicultural entrepreneurs and brands, has unveiled its inaugural study titled A STATE OF BLACK BEAUTY. Conducted in partnership with Northeastern University, this comprehensive research project focuses on the realities and insights of Black professionals in the beauty sector, marking a pivotal moment in industry history.

The Study Overview

The A STATE OF BLACK BEAUTY initiative is a response to the dynamics and challenges faced by Black professionals within the beauty industry, particularly during a politically charged and culturally transformative period in early 2025. The study compiles contributions from over 135 leading Black beauty founders, executives, artists, and other key contributors, offering unprecedented representation and a diverse spectrum of perspectives. These voices collectively narrate the transformation and influence of Black identity in shaping the beauty market.

Corey Huggins, Founder and Managing Partner of READY to BEAUTY, emphasizes the crucial nature of representation: "Being counted in data representation is about power. It shapes the narratives that are told and determines who receives opportunities in our industry. Without this accurate representation, contributions by Black professionals risk being removed from the conversation altogether."

This initiative aims to not only capture statistics but to elevate the authentic voices of Black industry players, providing a unique window into their experiences, challenges, and triumphs.

Key Findings from the Study

The study yielded several significant findings that shed light on the current state of Black professionals in beauty:

1. Retail Innovations: As the retail landscape changes, Black beauty professionals are advocating for innovative experiences like standalone pop-up events—both online and in person—over traditional cash-and-carry shows.
2. Work Environment Stressors: A staggering 70% of surveyed professionals indicated that issues related to race within workplace dynamics significantly contribute to feelings of burnout and anxiety.
3. Diversity and Inclusion Challenges: Amid rollbacks on diversity initiatives across the nation, Black professionals foresee an increase in discussions around boycotts and conscious consumerism, shaping the operational strategies of Black beauty brands.
4. Community Collaboration: The importance of community connections and collaborative efforts was underscored as essential for lasting success in the industry, especially given that traditional routes to equity can feel unpredictable.
5. Brand Identity and Growth: Although there is a strong sentiment that Black brands can thrive while remaining Black-led, opinions vary regarding the role of White consumers in achieving sustainable growth.
6. Cultural Legacy: A high percentage of participants believe that being Black-founded and Black-owned directly impacts both the market position and cultural significance of a brand. The preservation of cultural identity is seen as paramount for future brand evolution.

These findings will serve as the cornerstone for a series of ongoing studies and position papers from READY to BEAUTY, aiming to deepen understanding of Black professionals' roles and their historical significance in the beauty community.

Collaborative Approach

This study utilized a collaborative model, bringing together pioneering Black professionals from various disciplines including entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, and product development. Huggins referred to the assembly as a "Black kitchen cabinet for beauty," highlighting its collaborative nature that enriches the overall insight drawn from the study's findings.

The effort involved trusted partners like BrainTrust Founders Studio, FELOH, LORM•CO, and The Equity Wellness Collaborative, all of whom contributed their expertise to ensure the study's data is reflective of the reality in the beauty industry.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the A STATE OF BLACK BEAUTY study stands as a formidable testament to the importance of representation in data. It not only empowers Black professionals by documenting their contributions but also reimagines the future of Black beauty on its own terms. Huggins sums it up well: "By acknowledging these names and faces, we shine a light on the impactful stories that deserve to be told."

To dive deeper into the findings or to access the full report, interested parties can visit readytobeauty.com.

About READY to BEAUTY

READY to BEAUTY operates as the world’s first global think tank for multicultural entrepreneurs and brands. Spearheaded by experienced former executives from L'Oréal USA, the organization aims to redefine pathways to success for multicultural markets, focusing specifically on Black, Latinx, Middle Eastern, and South Asian demographics. The think tank provides tailored support to help beauty entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of the industry and establish impactful brands.