KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 3 — In the native beauty panorama, Kens Apothecary stays a notable title 23 years since its inception.
The founder Ken Lim launched area of interest skincare manufacturers at a time when the retail scene was mass market-driven. Today, manufacturers similar to Diptyque and Caudalie are family names and the phrase “apothecary” is a well-recognized one in our lexicon.
Presently, there are seven Kens Apothecary shops positioned in premier buying malls in the Klang Valley and Penang. By the finish of the yr, Lim will open a brand new Diptyque standalone at Tun Razak Exchange (TRX).
How it started
Before venturing into the beauty industry, Lim’s skilled background was as a monetary controller. His introduction of Australian cult model Aesop marked his preliminary foray into the Malaysian market.
When requested about hypothetical modifications, Lim, 52, shared an intriguing perspective.
“Looking again, maybe I might need delayed the launch of Kens Apothecary. It was too progressive and forward of its time,” Lim informed eNews Malaysia.
However, he acknowledged that his forward-thinking method finally paid off.
“Had I not taken that step then, I wouldn’t be the place I’m in the present day. Back then, I needed to educate folks about the idea of an apothecary,” mentioned Penang-born Lim.
“Now, when Malaysians hear apothecary, they instantly join it to our model. So, in a means, I’ve made that phrase synonymous with us.”
While drawing inspiration from multi-brand beauty shops like Joyce Beauty and Mecca, Kens Apothecary has carved its personal distinctive path.
“Naming the retailer Kens Apothecary stirred curiosity about the individual behind the model. At that point, it was unprecedented for a person to be in the beauty industry, which helped me stand out in folks’s reminiscences,” Lim mentioned.
Taking dangers has been a cornerstone of his journey.
“When I launched designer toothpaste Marvis, my workforce had reservations, however now it’s promoting effectively. This capacity to anticipate developments is useful,” Lim mentioned.
Lim expressed gratitude for pursuing his ardour. “Over the years, our prospects have positioned their belief in us. Now self-care is extra related than ever.”
What brings Lim satisfaction is that, even in spite of everything these years in the beauty industry, he stays related.
“That, I imagine, is an achievement in itself. A pricey buddy, Datin Catherine Lai, usually jogs my memory that staying related is what fosters curiosity about you and your model.”
Acknowledging the ever-evolving nature of developments, Lim emphasised the significance of predicting what’s to return.
“Initially, I solely launched manufacturers I personally wished to make use of. Now that I’m in my 50s, anti-ageing merchandise are on my radar.
“However, I make it some extent to have interaction with youthful people, discover their preferences on Instagram and align ourselves with what resonates with them.”
A brand new section
The Pavilion Kuala Lumpur retailer heralds a brand new section for the model. — Picture courtesy of Kens Apothecary
Kens Apothecary not too long ago unveiled its new idea retailer at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, providing an elevated expertise for customers.
Designed with youthful prospects in thoughts, impartial tones come into play amid a contact of business design. Linear cabinets permit prospects to browse in an open area.
The primary spotlight of the 990 sq. toes retailer is the terrazzo tabletop which is a nod to sustainability, provided that the materials originates from Sixteenth-century Italy to re-purpose stone offcuts.
According to Lim, the Pavilion KL retailer heralds a brand new section for the model, with buyer expertise as its primary focus.
“We provide a curated and personalised expertise. Our retailer is designed for seasonal pop-ups and different types of activations for a extra intimate buyer satisfaction,” he mentioned.
The boutique showcases a curated lineup of latest manufacturers like Philip B haircare, haute fragrance model Maison Crivelli and luxurious house perfume Fornasetti Profumi.
Lim is particularly pleased with his latest acquisition, Augustinus Bader.
“A buddy who travelled to New York got here throughout this model and informed me about it. I ordered it on-line and fell in love with it,” mentioned Lim.
Augustinus Bader not too long ago launched The Retinol Serum, which bought out in Malaysia inside two weeks of its launch. A light-weight and hydrating serum, it smooths and refines pores and skin and is appropriate for all pores and skin sorts.
Augustinus Bader not too long ago launched hydrating serum The Retinol Serum. — Picture courtesy of Kens Apothecary
Throughout his lengthy journey in this industry, Lim has been via ups and downs. But he’s thrived regardless of the obstacles.
“In retail, we’re at all times altering up our idea. Do not be reluctant to alter. I’ve misplaced a couple of manufacturers (Aesop, Laura Mercier, Peter Thomas Roth) alongside the means.
“But the one model that I constructed and will personal ceaselessly is Kens Apothecary, and nobody can take that away from me.”
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