Mary Kay Inc, a global beauty brand, has joined the Global Shea Alliance (GSA), a non-profit organization focused on creating a sustainable and competitive shea industry. This move aligns with Mary Kay’s goals of sustainability and empowering women around the world.
The GSA emphasizes an inclusive value chain and promotes sustainability and trustworthiness in its dealings with the industry. Mary Kay COO Deborah Gibbins sees this partnership as an important development in sustainable beauty practices, leveraging the use of shea in cosmetics. Mamatou Djaffo, president of the GSA, welcomed Mary Kay, citing their shared interests in corporate social responsibility and sustainability. The collaboration is expected to influence industry standards in social and environmental responsibility.
The partnership aims to have a positive impact on the cosmetics industry, with a focus on improving the economic well-being of shea collectors and processors, and restoring parklands in West Africa. Potential synergies and opportunities were discussed at a recent meeting with GSA’s Aaron Adu and Olawunmi Osholake at the Mary Kay facility in Texas. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to balance commercial interests with social and environmental concerns in the beauty industry.