The Wilkes Group Inc. was established in 1976 as an independent national distributor/agent/marketer of prestige fragrances, cosmetics, cosmetic specialty products and bath and body lines. The company has been responsible for the introduction of many fragrance and cosmetic specialty lines in the United States including the first cellulite product, the largest independent prestige nail and foot care line, and the largest independent men’s fragrance. The company is totally independent from all other companies, and is 100% privately owned.

Throughout the years, The Wilkes Group has enjoyed an excellent reputation for its understanding of the U.S. market and the nuances of distributing cosmetics and fragrance to department store groups, specialty retailers, independent drugstores, perfumeries and gift stores.

Some examples:

In 1978, the company became the first exclusive distributor for the Evian® Brumisateur® Mineral Water Spray from DANONE (France). In the years to follow, and to this day, Evian has been the overwhelming leader in its category.

In 1984, the company began to distribute Pupa Color Cosmetics from Micys, (formerly Roan) S.p.A. of Milan, Italy. Pupa is the worldwide leader in innovative makeup and makeup kits, with distribution in over 80 countries. The company resigned this line in 2004 because the inventory and return from retailer requirements became too burdensome.

In 1999, the company internally developed and introduced Source Océan, the first prestige hand/nail treatment line infused with the exclusive Source Océan Complex™. Comprised of marine-rich nutrients and beneficial vitamins, the complex ensures that hands, nails and feet now receive the very best care.

In July 2005, The Wilkes Group became the exclusive United States agent for Bronnley of London, a prestigious firm with an extensive line of luxurious English soaps, fragrances, bath and body products and toiletries established in 1883. A new ownership of bronnley in England decided to change its distribution strategy and, as a result, The Wilkes Group resigned the liine in June, 2008.

Capabilities

Since 1993 the company has had corporate offices at its distribution center in Old Lyme, Connecticut, having previously been headquartered in New York City for seventeen years. At this location, the company employs a full-time staff of seven people and occupies a 10,000 square foot warehouse and office building designed for its business.

The company is fully computerized with hardware and software capable of handling all E.D.I. (electronic data interchange), A.S.N. (advance ship notice) retailer requirements, and electronic invoicing.

Sales Organization

The company divides the country into twenty-four sales territories, and manages a thirty-five person sales organization comprised of multi-line independent sales representatives, most of whom have been associated with the company for many years. This group completely covers all department and specialty stores, and a large number of independent drugstores, and perfumeries. At the present time, approximately 1,500 points of sale are being covered on 30, 60, or 90 day call cycles.

Company Characteristics

The company is well organized, has been profitable for thirty of the thirty two years since its founding, and has no debt. Many think the
company is one of the best in the country at what it does, and one would be hard-pressed to find another similar company. The Wilkes Group knows
the market, is well staffed for its size, and has an excellent reputation for integrity. It has the insight, expertise, and patience to successfully
introduce and sustain new products and, other than Pupa and Bronnley, has only worked with products requiring introduction to the market. Currently,
the company is focused on its Evian and Source Océan businesses. In the past it has provided invoicing, warehousing, shipping and mail order/telephone service for others. Over the years, the company has invested heavily in people, facilities and systems in addition to its lines which, it believes, explains the long-term relationships it has enjoyed with most manufacturers and retailers.