This case focuses on a start-up business trying to find a profitable niche’ in the skin care market
in southern California. Entering a highly competitive industry, Healthy Skin Naturally is trying to
determine the proper sales, distribution and promotional strategies to attain their sales goal of
$500,000 in the next three years. Over the time that the products have been produced, the owners
report that the “feedback from users tell us that they are all very effective”; it’s the opinion of the
owners of Healthy Skin Naturally that price is a secondary factor to buyers as long as the
products are effective in helping solve skin problems. Covering a geographic area from Santa
Barbara to San Diego, the owners are targeting white collar professional women aged 35 to 70,
as well as teenage acne sufferers and men of all ages. This case would be appropriate for
sophomore-junior level students. The case can be taught in 2 to 3 hours and expected to require
3-5 hours of outside preparation by students. Research into skincare issues might be helpful
before attempting this case.