Market share of deodorant: in the grooming market and globally

According to Euromonitor International, the deodorants sector was one of the few segments to post growth in 2008 (8% globally; up from 5% in 2007) and outperformed the global cosmetics and toiletries market, which saw 5% growth in the same period. (See Figure 1.) This success is evidence of a shift in global consumer perception of deodorants—from a product with relatively low usage among consumers globally to one that is fast becoming a necessary part of daily grooming regimens. Despite strong growth rates, deodorants still only account for $17 billion in total sales worldwide, or just 5% of the overall market. This compares rather unfavorably with the 23% share held by skin care products, proving that there is still much work to be done if deodorants are to reach their full potential.

As the most mature region for deodorants, Western Europe accounts for the largest share of the global market, with sales worth $5.6 billion in 2008 (33%). In most Western European countries, there is a strong social stigma attached to not using deodorant, and this has kept product penetration very high for many years. Conversely, it is now difficult for manufacturers to make significant category gains in Western Europe. The market has reached strong maturity levels, and growth has been comparatively slow in recent years. The majority of consumers already use the more expensive spray deodorant format, so there is less scope for trade-up in that respect—although even the mature U.K. market still reported growth of 6% for deodorant sprays in 2008. Instead, marketers are increasingly focusing on offering consumers value-added products such as deodorants with antiaging (Unilever’s Dove Pro-Age) or ultra long-lasting benefits (notably Sure, also from Unilever).