5 minute read
COVER STORY: GROUP48
Group48: Pioneering Health, Beauty & Wellness in Australia and NZ
For over seven decades, Group48 has been a powerhouse in Australian retail, evolving from a leader in fashion accessories to a major player in the health, beauty, and wellness industry. As a trusted wholesaler and distributor, Group48 now supplies over 3,000 retailers across Australia and New Zealand, spanning pharmacies, department stores, health food retailers, and premium specialty stores.
With a robust privately owned distribution warehouse and an automated software platform, Group48 delivers more than eight million units annually, ensuring seamless logistics for its expanding portfolio of high-performing brands. These include Polished London, Ashaya, Cleanlogic, BodyTools, Sorted Skin, Yes Studio, Natural Glow, Kitty & Clover, Barcs Australia, and Amelie. The company also collaborates with retailers on private label products, supplying major names like David Jones, Priceline, Rockwear, General Pants, and GoVita.
As Group48 continues its rapid expansion, General Manager Fiona Mendonca plays a critical role in driving strategic growth and brand innovation. With an extensive career spanning sales, operations, business development, and retail strategy, Fiona has led the company in category growth, operational performance, and market leadership. Her experience includes leading roles at The Jojoba Company, Burt’s Bees, Selfcare Corporation, Coty, and Vitaco Health Group, giving her a deep understanding of consumer trends and the evolving retail landscape.
FROM FASHION TO WELLNESS: A LEGACY OF INNOVATION
Since its founding in 1948, Group48 has carved out a niche in fashion accessories, with Barcs Australia standing as Myer’s longest-enduring brand. As the business evolved, it adeptly shifted its focus to meet the burgeoning demand for health and wellness, expanding its portfolio to offer products that embrace modern consumers’ emphasis on holistic beauty and self-care. Today, under the guidance of CEO Marc Reid—a descendant of the founding family—this 70-year-old enterprise remains committed to preserving its rich tradition.
Having strong partnerships allows us to introduce new brands effectively, ensuring they get the market presence and retail support they need to thrive.
Marc Reid is dedicated to leaving the company in an even stronger position than when he joined, ensuring that the storied legacy of Barcs continues with a vision that extends to future generations.
WHAT SETS GROUP48 APART?
In a highly competitive market, Group48 stands out by curating distinctive brands with unique formulas and clear points of difference. The team rigorously assesses market gaps, category potential, and consumer demand, ensuring they bring only the most innovative, highperforming products to the Australian and New Zealand markets.
“We don’t just look at what’s trending— we anticipate what’s next,” says Fiona Mendonca. “Consumers today are seeking more than just beauty products; they want results-driven, holistic solutions that improve their well-being inside and out.”
Fiona notes that retailer relationships have been crucial to Group48’s success:
“Having strong partnerships allows us to introduce new brands effectively, ensuring they get the market presence and retail support they need to thrive.”
FUTURE GROWTH: THE NEXT CHAPTER FOR GROUP48
Looking ahead, Group48 is poised for major growth, with a projected 100% expansion over the next five years. The company’s focus remains on:
• Expanding its beauty, health, and wellness portfolio
• Strengthening retailer partnerships across pharmacy, department stores, and premium retail
• Bringing new, cutting-edge international brands to the Australian and NZ markets
• Advancing technology-driven distribution to enhance efficiency
“With a strong foundation, an incredible team, and a keen eye on global trends, we are shaping the future of retail distribution in Australia and beyond,” says Fiona Mendonca.
As consumers continue to embrace holistic health and wellness, Group48 remains at the forefront—bringing the best innovations, brands, and retail solutions to the market.
WANT TO PARTNER WITH GROUP48?
Whether you’re a retailer looking for premium products or a brand seeking distribution in Australia and NZ, Group48 is the partner you need to grow and scale successfully.
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POLISHED LONDON
THE UK’S NO. 1 ORAL BEAUTY BRAND
Founded on the belief that oral care is an extension of beauty. Polished London is revolutionising the way we think about teeth and gum health. Originally exclusive to Priceline, this premium UK brand is now expanding across Australia and New Zealand under Group48’s expert distribution.
Developed by leading UK dental professionals, Polished London combines clinically proven whitening solutions with aesthetic, Instagram-worthy packaging— turning daily oral care into a luxurious beauty ritual.
Polished London is one of the top oral care brands and have a regular segment on Australia’s #1 Shopping Channel, TVSN.
WHY IT’S DIFFERENT:
One of the first brands to merge oral care with the beauty industry
Teeth Whitening Powder infused with Hyaluronic Acid for gum and tooth health
Vegan-friendly & peroxide-free formulas for a gentle, effective whitening experience
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ASHAYA
EMPOWERING WOMEN’S WELLNESS
Science-backed solutions for PMS, Menopause & Hormonal Balance.
Founded by Jodie Matthews, and Siobhan Fildes, Ashaya was created from a shared passion for beauty, wellness, and the power of conscious self-care. With extensive experience in the global beauty industry, the founders were inspired by Ayurveda and the healing power of adaptogenic botanicals, blending traditional wisdom with modern science.
A chance conversation about hormonal health—with each founder at a different life stage—sparked the idea to create a brand that supports women through every stage of life. Over three years, they worked with trusted experts to develop a range of hormone-balancing products designed to nourish the body inside and out.
WHY IT MATTERS:
75% of women experience PMS symptoms, affecting daily life and work productivity.
1 in 10 women suffer from PMDD, a severe form of PMS.
80% of menopausal women experience symptoms like brain fog, anxiety & fatigue.
ASHAYA’S APPROACH:
Holistic, Ayurvedic-inspired formulas for hormonal balance
Targeted solutions for mood, sleep, energy & skin
Empowering education to break the stigma around women’s health
