Everything you need to know about Estée Lauder: The legacy of a philanthropist

The history of Estée Lauder and its company, Estée Lauder Companies, has profoundly shaped the beauty care world – from its humble beginnings in a New York backyard to its ascension as a global icon in the cosmetics industry. Today, boasting over 30 brands in its portfolio, the company reflects on a rich heritage that encapsulates a captivating development history.

An empire expands: The evolution of Estée Lauder

Born in Queens, New York, in 1908, Estée Lauder discovered her passion for beauty at a young age, inspired by her Hungarian uncle, a pioneer in the production of skin creams. Alongside her husband Joseph, she founded Estée Lauder Companies in 1946, quickly becoming a byword for luxury and quality in the beauty sector. As the visionary entrepreneur behind the company and through her revolutionary marketing strategies, including the introduction of the legendary 'Youth-Dew' bath oil and fragrance, Estée Lauder transcended the traditional boundaries of beauty care to build a global empire.

Through relentless dedication and innovative thinking, Estée Lauder has emerged as one of the leading brands in the cosmetics industry, renowned for its premium skincare products, makeup, and fragrances. With its expansion into international markets and acquisition of other cosmetic companies, Estée Lauder Companies has evolved into a global cosmetics titan, headquartered in New York City and operating in over 150 countries.

Continuous innovation: Products that get under your skin

The portfolio of Estée Lauder Companies, encompassing cosmetic brands such as M·A·C, La Mer, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, and Aveda, is distinguished by an extraordinary array of beauty products, from high-quality skincare and groundbreaking makeup to unique fragrance experiences. Each product embodies the brand's core values: excellence, innovation, and a profound dedication to aesthetics. These innovations attest to the brand's unwavering commitment to continuously pushing the beauty industry's boundaries and providing consumers with products that not only enhance their appearance but also foster a sense of wellbeing. Estée Lauder remains loyal to its philosophy of generating tangible results through ongoing research and development in beauty science.

Commitment to women and culture as guiding principles

Estée Lauder's dedication to society and her philanthropic efforts, such as supporting the restoration of the Palace of Versailles and constructing playgrounds in New York City, underscore her remarkable legacy. Significant efforts are also made to promote women's health and wellbeing: Evelyn Lauder, Estée's daughter-in-law, initiated the 'Pink Ribbon' campaign, which has continued to highlight the importance of breast health globally.

As a global leader in the prestige beauty sector, Estée Lauder Companies excels in placing its employees at the heart of its corporate activities. With over 60,000 employees worldwide, of whom 81 percent are women, the company showcases its commitment to equality. Notably, 59 percent of women occupy senior roles such as Vice President and above, highlighting the company's progressive approach to women's advancement.

Estée Lauder Companies further emphasises the significance of creativity, innovation, and integrity within its business model. The company serves not just as a workplace, but as a space where talent can thrive and develop. Fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and continuous learning are pillars of the company's culture. It values diversity of thought and people, encourages creativity and innovation, and upholds the highest standards of integrity in all endeavours.