Thinking of Buying a Cosmetics Store in Australia? Here Are 3 Vital Questions to Ask

The Australian cosmetics retail industry continues to evolve rapidly, with strong consumer demand for skincare, clean beauty, and personalised service across both online and physical channels.

In 2025, industry revenue is projected to reach $5.9 billion, with annualised growth of 2.7% forecast through 2030. Despite competition from supermarkets and ecommerce platforms, well-positioned cosmetic stores are thriving through curated product offerings, loyalty programs, and hybrid service models.

Buyers must assess retail positioning, supplier relationships, and consumer behaviour to ensure sustainable profitability.

1. Is the Business Financially Viable?

Why It Matters:

Cosmetic retail operates on tight margins and depends on product turnover, stock control, and supplier pricing. Businesses with exclusive brands, strong product mix, and omnichannel sales tend to perform better.

Profit margins across the industry average 5.4%, but this can increase significantly for stores offering high-end skincare, house-brand lines, or integrated beauty services.

What to Check:

• Revenue breakdown: Does the store earn from in-store sales only, or does it include ecommerce, gift cards, and services like makeup or facials?
  
  

• Supplier agreements: Are there exclusivity deals, white-label arrangements, or volume discounts in place?
  
  

• Stock management: Is inventory well-tracked, and how often are bestsellers replenished or rotated?
  
  

• Profit margins: How do margins compare across makeup, skincare, haircare, and fragrance categories?

2. Does the Location & Market Position Support Growth?

Why It Matters:

Cosmetic stores benefit from high foot traffic, especially in shopping centres, wellness precincts, and urban retail hubs. Proximity to complementary businesses like salons, gyms, or fashion boutiques can increase visibility and spontaneous purchases.

A clearly defined customer base—whether prestige-focused, sustainable beauty advocates, or mass-market shoppers—is key to brand positioning.

What to Check:

• Location visibility: Is the store positioned in a high-traffic area with complementary retail nearby?
  
  

• Target customer segment: Who is the core demographic? Are they local residents, commuters, or online shoppers?
  
  

• Competitor landscape: Are there pharmacies, department stores, or other cosmetic retailers nearby, and how does this business differentiate itself?
  
  

• Brand alignment: Does the store carry trending or sought-after brands that match local demand?

3. Is the Business Aligned with Industry Trends & Consumer Behaviour?

Why It Matters:

Consumers are increasingly focused on sustainability, personalisation, and convenience. Retailers that stock vegan, cruelty-free, refillable, or local brands are seeing higher conversion and loyalty.

Ecommerce integration is also vital—stores with click-and-collect, online product catalogues, and social media marketing see stronger customer retention.

What to Check:

• Digital presence: Does the store have an ecommerce website, loyalty program, or active social media following?
  
  

• Sustainability focus: Are ethical and eco-friendly products prioritised, and are there refill or recycling incentives?
  
  

• Value-added services: Does the business offer consultations, beauty classes, or mini-services like facials or brow shaping?
  
  

• Customer engagement: How are customer reviews, referral programs, and repeat visit incentives managed?

Ready to Invest in a Thriving Cosmetics Store Business?

Australia’s cosmetics sector is well-positioned for continued growth, particularly for retailers offering experiential shopping, ethical products, and multichannel engagement. Buyers who prioritise product strategy, branding, and service innovation will capture strong consumer loyalty and long-term profitability.

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