Meet KIKO Milano: An Italian make-up company that went from family firm to Burj Khalifa advertiser

Noor Al Fahim
4 Min Read

KIKO Milano recently celebrated 1000 stores in the UAE with a light show on the iconic Burj Khalifa

KIKO Milano has had a strong presence in the Middle East with stores across the region and an online presence on e-commerce platforms like Namshi. The brand recently celebrated 1000 stores in Dubai with a light-up show on the Burj Khalifa and a mega-event at Dubai Mall.

KIKO Milano is a prominent Italian cosmetics brand that has transformed from a family-owned enterprise to an internationally recognized beauty giant, gaining a significant presence in the global beauty market. Here’s an overview of its journey:

Origins and Growth

  • Founded in 1997 by Percassi, an Italian family business, KIKO Milano initially aimed to provide high-quality yet affordable cosmetics to the mass market. The brand rapidly expanded its reach, opening stores in various countries and becoming a go-to destination for makeup enthusiasts.

Expansion into the Middle East

  • Dubai’s Burj Khalifa Advertising: In 2022, KIKO Milano celebrated a major milestone: the opening of its 1,000th store globally. To commemorate this achievement, the company held a grand event in Dubai, featuring a stunning light show on the Burj Khalifa, one of the world’s most iconic structures. This breathtaking display, visible across the city, showcased KIKO’s dedication to the region and marked a significant step in the company’s strategy to expand its footprint in the Middle East.

KIKO’s Vision

  • Middle East Focus: Dubai holds special importance for KIKO Milano as a hub for international fashion and beauty trends. The region’s growing demand for premium, accessible beauty products made it an ideal market for expansion. KIKO’s strategy has been to blend Italian beauty expertise with global accessibility, offering products that range from luxurious skincare to affordable makeup for all.

The Store Experience

  • KIKO Milano’s stores are known for their vibrant, contemporary design that reflects the brand’s modern and dynamic approach. In addition to being a retail destination, many KIKO stores also offer personalized beauty experiences, allowing customers to test products and receive expert advice from beauty consultants.

The KIKO Milano Difference

  • Inclusive Beauty: KIKO Milano has always focused on providing a wide range of products for various skin tones, tastes, and preferences, making high-quality cosmetics accessible to everyone. This approach has helped the brand gain popularity across diverse demographics.
  • Innovative Products: KIKO’s offerings include high-performance makeup, skincare, and tools, often featuring unique textures, shades, and formulations. Its constant innovation keeps the brand fresh and relevant in the competitive beauty industry.

Looking Ahead

  • As KIKO Milano continues its expansion, particularly in the GCC region, the brand remains committed to delivering innovative beauty solutions while maintaining its Italian heritage. The success of its Burj Khalifa advertisement is a testament to KIKO’s growing influence and ambition in the global beauty market.

KIKO Milano’s journey from a family-run business to a major player in the global beauty scene, with monumental achievements like the Burj Khalifa light show, showcases its commitment to making beauty accessible, diverse, and exciting.