L'Oreal(US:LRLCY) Nan Fang Du Shi Bao·2025-09-02 11:01Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding La Roche-Posay's "Soothing Thermal Water Spray" has sparked discussions online, with critics labeling it as a "smart tax" due to its ingredient list primarily consisting of "water" and questioning its high price point [1][3]. Company Overview - La Roche-Posay's thermal water spray is a flagship product under the L'Oréal Group, which has reported a sales revenue of €224.73 billion (approximately ¥1861.91 billion) in the first half of this year, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 3% [3][4]. - The product is available in three sizes: 50ml, 150ml, and 300ml, with the 300ml two-pack priced at ¥101.5 [3]. Financial Performance - In the first half of 2024, L'Oréal's sales reached €221.2 billion, marking a year-on-year increase of 7.5%, while operating profit grew by 8% to €45.99 billion, accounting for 20.8% of sales [4]. - The professional hair care division has emerged as a growth driver, achieving a 6.5% year-on-year increase in sales, with brands like Kérastase and Color Wow gaining consumer favor [4]. - The mass cosmetics division reported sales of €84.1 billion (approximately ¥697.8 billion), with a year-on-year growth of 2.8%, while the skin science beauty division saw sales of €38.6 billion (approximately ¥320.3 billion), growing by 3.1% [5].