Melvita is a pioneering French organic beauty brand founded in 1983 by biologist and beekeeper Bernard Chevilliat. Headquartered in Lagorce, France, it is one of France’s largest certified organic beauty brands and operates as a subsidiary of the L’Occitane Group, which acquired it in 2008.
Core Philosophy and Branding
Meaning of Name:
The name derives from the Latin words “mel” (honey) and “vita” (life), reflecting the founder’s passion for beekeeping and nature.
Organic Pioneer:
Melvita was one of the first brands to receive the ECOCERT label for certified organic health and beauty products in 2002.
Bio-Regenerative Vision:
The company focuses on “bio-regenerative” skincare, using formulas designed to boost the skin’s natural regeneration mechanisms rather than just repairing damage.
Product Portfolio and Innovation
Range:
The brand offers over 400 products, including facial creams, beauty oils, floral waters, hair care (shampoos and conditioners), and toiletries.
Key Ingredients:
Products are formulated from over 870 natural raw materials, with a focus on honey, floral waters, and botanical oils.
Patents:
Melvita has filed approximately 10 patents related to its ingredients, textures, and combinations.
Quality Standards:
Skincare products often contain at least 20% organic ingredients, doubling the 10% minimum required by ECOCERT.
Operations and Global Presence
Global Reach:
Melvita operates in more than 15 countries, with a significant presence in France, Japan, China, Hong Kong, Germany, and the UK. It has opened over 50 stores worldwide.
Eco-Factory:
The company operates an ISO 14001-certified eco-factory in Ardèche. This facility uses 100% renewable electricity, features green roofs for insulation, and uses solar panels to generate a portion of its power.
Workforce:
The company employs between 200 and 524 people globally.
Sustainability and Ethical Commitments
B Corp Certification:
Melvita is a certified B Corp, meeting high standards for social and environmental performance.
Biodiversity Conservation:
Since 2023, the brand has partnered with WWF France to protect sea turtles in French Guiana and New Caledonia. It also actively supports bee conservation.
Ethical Sourcing:
The company holds Fair for Life certification and works with fair trade partners, such as cooperatives in Morocco that employ hundreds of women.
Eco-Design Packaging:
Melvita uses 94.6% recyclable plastics and is transitioning toward more glass bottles to reduce waste.