French cosmetics giant, global beauty retailer
The Independent and other outlets report on 2026 advent calendars from Boots and LookFantastic, including Luxe, Skin, and fragrance editions with many full-size products, high value, and online-only availability. Avant Skincare adds a marine-ark themed calendar, while LookFantastic reveals insider-curated selections.
Retailers are expanding digital price tags across stores to speed up pricing and reduce labor. But lawmakers and unions warn about surge pricing, job losses, and price manipulation, prompting proposed bans in several states and at federal level. Initial pilots show mixed reactions from workers and shoppers.
Sephora has opened its first Scottish store in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter. The launch drew long queues, entertainment, and freebies, signaling strong local demand for prestige beauty and marking a milestone in the brand’s UK expansion.
Public market debut of Jersey Mike’s raises about $1 billion at a $7.3 billion valuation. Blackstone introduces broad employee ownership for corporate staff, while franchisees and store workers remain ineligible. Reformation mirrors a cautious IPO environment with steady demand but muted first-day gains. The wave of private equity-backed listings shows resilience amid volatile markets.
Sephora opens its Glasgow Silverburn store in Scotland as the second Sephora location in the region this summer. Simultaneously, reports and later clarifications surround Sephora’s entry into Israel, with Glam42 acting as an Israeli partner in a limited rollout of Sephora Collection products, sparking controversy over franchise status and potential boycotts.
Independent and Scotsman-led roundups show consumers shifting to Pantene, OLAPLEX and NYK1 sets, with discounts on salon-grade tools and sulphate-free lines. Posts from NYP and The Scotsman highlight heat protection, frizz control and shine as key benefits, while Independent tracks in-salon and at-home options for processed hair.
A roundup of 2026 beauty Advent calendars from major retailers and brands. Calendars range from affordable to luxury, with counts of products (full-size and minis) and notable inclusions. Readers are guided on value, contents, and availability as the season approaches.