Feelunique hails strong golden quarter as retail and marketplace sales soar

For the 12-week period to January 3, 2021, Feelunique reported its overall sales grew 39% to £28m, while active customers over the period jumped 41% to 1.3 million.

Sales of skincare products was the main driver of growth, up 57%, while sales through Feelunique’s third-party marketplace channel increased tenfold year on year. 

Another strong product performer over the period was Feelunique’s advent calendar, selling more than 10,000 in the run-up to Christmas.

Skincare, fragrance and haircare products were also popular, with sales of retinol-based lines up 145% and dermatologist-approved lines up 174% “as customers looked to replicate professional-standard treatments at home during lockdown”.

Feelunique also said international sales grew for the period, with US revenues up 168%, alongside growth in Europe, as well as the Middle East and North Africa region. 

Chief executive Sarah Miles said: “We’re delighted to report a very strong sales performance during the quarter, capping what was a transformational 2020 for Feelunique.  

“We have achieved rapid growth in revenue and new customers over the past 12 months. This progress has been supported by investments in our technology and our focus on expanding the number of brands available through our platform.

“As a result of this continued momentum, Feelunique is on track to exceed £100m in sales and achieve positive EBITDA for its financial year ended March 31, 2021.  

“Over the Christmas period, we continued to achieve great success with our gifting options, and our hugely popular beauty advent calendar – which included more than £270 worth of beauty products for just £89 – yet again sold out in the lead-up to Christmas.

“Makeup sales delivered double-digit sales growth despite the cancellation of Christmas parties and  consumers staying home. For the same reason, skincare sales surged, with consumers prioritising self-care during the period.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues across the business for their continued commitment and support  through the important Christmas period, particularly during such a challenging time.

“We have very exciting plans for 2021, which include adding even more brands and exclusive ranges to our platform, driving sales through our growing marketplace channel and expanding further in our target international markets.”