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New Leadership at The Honest Company: Etienne von Kunssberg Joins as Supply Chain SVP
The Honest Company, renowned for personal care products, has appointed Etienne von Kunssberg as Senior Vice President of Supply Chain, effective February 24, 2025. Reporting to CEO Carla Vernón, von Kunssberg will manage daily operations and develop long-term supply chain strategies. His extensive experience includes leadership roles at Dole Packaged Foods, Henkel, Procter & Gamble, and Coty. Steve Winchell, the former supply chain head, transitions to Chief Innovation Officer, focusing on Innovation, Safety, and Regulatory initiatives. This strategic move aims to enhance The Honest Company’s logistics framework and operational efficiency, aligning with its efforts to adapt to market demands and drive transformation.
Bismuth Prices Surge as China Tightens Export Controls
Bismuth, crucial for cosmetics, personal care, and medications, has seen its highest European prices since 2008, driven by China's planned export controls on critical metals. Spot prices have surged from approximately US$6 to US$12–US$18 per lb. China dominates global bismuth production (over 80%), with limited alternatives from Japan, South Korea, and Laos. The U.S., which ceased primary refined bismuth production in 1997, heavily depends on imports and may face shortages if China restricts exports. Increased inquiries from European and U.S. buyers highlight concerns over securing stable supplies. Analysts warn that meeting demand outside China would require a 22% global production increase. This supply crunch threatens industry stability, especially as demand grows for bismuth-dependent products.
France Advances Legislation to Ban 'Forever Chemicals' in Consumer Products
French lawmakers are set to approve legislation banning the manufacture and sale of products containing perfluorinated alkylated substances (PFAS), including cosmetics, effective January 1, 2026. Known as 'forever chemicals' due to their persistence in the environment and human body, PFAS will be prohibited in cosmetics, ski waxes, and textiles, with exceptions for essential industrial uses. Initially, kitchen utensils were included but have since been excluded. The bill also introduces a tax on manufacturers responsible for PFAS emissions, aligning with the 'polluter pays' principle. This move positions France at the forefront of PFAS restrictions within the EU, driven by growing health and environmental concerns, potentially heralding stricter EU-wide regulations.