Razor blades disposed of, sales growing

According to the Retail index of Nielsen, the market of shaving products is expanding. The number of razor blades and disposable razors sold in 2006 was over 50 million with a total value of HUF 6 billion. Disposable razors account for the largest part of retail sales in terms of volume (64 per cent) and sales are growing. Classic double edged razor blades are in second place (24 per cent), while the rest is composed of replaceable razor heads. In terms of value, replaceable heads and disposable razors both hold a 46 per cent share. The proportion of products used by women among disposable razors is growing. These accounted for 15 per cent of the total volume sold last year and for 18 per cent of the total value. Concentration increased last year, with hyper markets and drugstores increasing their market share. Sales of razor handles declined by 21 per cent in terms of value in 2006. While the average price of products for men fell by 12 per cent, that of products for women rose by 13 per cent. Hyper markets played an increasingly dominant role in sales measured by volume, with a market share of 47 per cent for men’s products and 36 per cent for women’s. Retail sales of shaving foams, gels and creams exceeded HUF 3 billion between March 2006 and February 2007. Aerosol foam accounted for 47 per cent, while aerosol gel had 41 per cent with only 12 per cent for cream.