Fine Fragrance

Niche refers to a specialized segment of the market for a particular kind of product or service. Niche markets focus on distinct client demands and preferences with specialized products or services. For a company, this strategic concentration usually tends to optimise costs and increase its competitiveness against less specialized competitors.

The origins of niche perfumery

Niche perfumery emerged in the 1970s in response to the growing industrialisation of the perfume industry. Many elements can define niche fragrances: they are usually produced in smaller quantities, perfumers usually have more freedom at the time their creation, they introduce new concepts on the market, and so on. Although some high-end department stores give growing importance to niche brands, these perfumes are mostly sold online or in specialised perfume stores.

For a perfumer, niche is more exciting as it allows more creative freedom – said Luz Vaquero, Head Perfumer at Iberchem, in a 2023 interview with Niche by Nez. We usually have a bigger budget for the formula which allows us to use more expensive ingredients. […] You also have to find a balance in creativity: You have to imagine something different, something you’ve never smelled before, but that you can wear!

Nowadays, niche perfumery often takes centre stage. Brands such as Frederic Malle, Serge Lutens or Anick Goutal are often cited along with commercial names. Their launches are followed closely by major brands such as Armani, Louis Vuitton, etc., many of which now also count on their own niche (sometimes called private) perfume collection.

Niche perfumery events

In the 2000s, niche fragrances became so popular that specialised events started to emerge to showcase them, such as Esxence in Milan, Pitti Fragranze in Florence or the Quintessence at Beautyworld Middle East. The market now has a large community, one that is constantly growing, sharing the same quest for creativity and uniqueness.

From niche perfumery to bazaar fragrances

Iberchem offers inspiring creations, adding to the performance and uniqueness of a product. We work with natural and synthetic raw materials, all carefully sourced. Our broad palette of ingredients stands out and offers an endless range of possibilities. Whether you are looking for the commercial success of a mainstream scent or the opulence of a luxury niche perfume, we have what it takes. It is up to you to choose!

Bakhoor and incense

Bakhoor plays an important role in the scent culture of the Middle East. It consists of wood chips dipped in perfumed oil. The wood used for the chips is usually oud (agarwood). To release the fragrance, the chips are burned slowly to release a thick smoke. The scent is strong and complex but also appeasing. The scent may vary depending on the ingredients used in the oil.