WASHINGTON, DC / ACCESSWIRE / October 23, 2024 / Fragrance Creators Association (FCA) hosted its 2024 Annual Meeting on October 23, 2024, at Stone House in Warren, New Jersey. Inspired by the legacy of Robert Bedoukian, the theme, "Benevolence," emphasized integrity, compassion, and scientific excellence.
The event opened with the Chairman's address by FCA Board Co-Chairs Cynthia Reichard, President of Arylessence, and Robert Weinstein, formerly of Robertet USA. They highlighted that 2024 marked FCA's strongest and most impactful year yet. Reflecting on the year's achievements, they emphasized how FCA's collaborative spirit and shared values have advanced the industry-a momentum they are confident will continue through the challenges of 2025 and beyond.
FCA President & CEO Farah K. Ahmed recapped 2024's key impacts, including efforts to shape a regulatory environment that encourages innovation and enhances consumer understanding in the U.S. and Canada. Highlights included FCA's engagement with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to advance approvals of greener fragrance chemistries and leading efforts with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other agencies to achieve digital labeling of fragrance allergens in lieu of on-pack across all consumer product categories; a measure that reduces packaging waste while expanding consumer education. The Policy Foresights Program continued to provide predictive intelligence, helping the association proactively manage emerging risks.
2025 Outlook: Ahmed emphasized the need for continued agility in navigating evolving regulations and geopolitical shifts, particularly with heightened scrutiny on supply chains. She stressed FCA's role in ensuring the industry's resilience and adaptability. "Our goal is to not only navigate these changes but to shape them in ways that benefit both the industry and society," she noted.
The business session was followed by dynamic panel discussions featuring industry and policy experts, including:
The Future of Digital Labeling, featuring Maria Burquest, exploring how new technologies can enhance consumer trust.
MoCRA Update, with insights from Dr. Linda Katz (FDA) and Michael Varrone (Sidley Austin LLP) on the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act.
Political Outlook for 2025, with former Representative Phil English and former Senator Byron Dorgan (ArentFox Schiff) discussing the post-election landscape.
Reichard shared, "This meeting is about more than celebrating our successes-it's about uniting around shared goals and driving impactful change. With a strong foundation of purpose, we are excited to lead the fragrance industry into a more innovative future."
During the meeting, FCA members confirmed the 2025 Board of Directors slate. Reichard continues as Chair, while Weinstein retired after 24 years of service. Weinstein remarked, "It's been a pleasure serving FCA. I deeply appreciate our dedicated members and am confident in the association's ability to guide the industry toward a prosperous future."
FCA welcomed new Board members: Arnaud Adrian (Robertet North America), Stephanie Trouiller (MANE), and Melanie Brown (The Lebermuth Company), along with earlier additions Scott Violette (DSM-Firmenich), John Trombley (Givaudan Fragrances), and Vivek Sirohi (Unilever).
The meeting concluded with a tribute to the late Bob Bedoukian, celebrating his contributions to the fragrance industry. A dedicated advocate, Bedoukian served on the FCA Board since 1995, shaping key initiatives with his vision and commitment to excellence. His legacy of integrity, compassion, and scientific leadership endures.
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For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
E. Janset Batibay
Fragrance Creators Association
Jbatibay@fragrancecreators.org
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About Fragrance Creators:
Fragrance Creators Association represents the majority of fragrance manufacturing in North America, advocating for the industry across the value chain. Members include companies that create, manufacture, and use fragrances in various products, as well as suppliers of fragrance ingredients. FCA also leads the Congressional Fragrance Caucus and produces *The Fragrance Conservatory*, a comprehensive resource on fragrance. Learn more at fragrancecreators.org-for people, perfume, and the planet.
Contact Information
E. Janset Batibay
jbatibay@fragrancecreators.org
SOURCE: Fragrance Creators Association
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