Brand story: Organic Surge
What is it? Organic Surge, which arrived in Hong Kong this autumn, is a British-based brand that gives some of its takings to charity and has managed to price itself at the reasonable end of the market while stating that it hasn't compromised on its organic purity or efficacy. It says its all-over body-care range has a blend of natural ingredients, formulated with 'passion and care to give the body the happiness it deserves'. Free from additives, such as parabens, SLS, sulphates, synthetic perfume, mineral oils, petroleum propylene glycol and animal-derived ingredients, Organic Surge promises 'impressive results with no chemical overload' and no compromise on quality.
There are so many organic brands now. Why another one? The creators say the numbers speak for themselves when it comes to demand. Nearly 90 per cent of consumers in Britain stated recently that avoiding synthetic chemicals was important to them. Organic Surge - founded by former interior designer, hotelier and hairdresser Alan McKenzie - says it's right that people want to avoid more chemicals and toxins. The company says there are now more than 10,000 chemicals in everyday use and that our skin absorbs around 2kg of chemicals every year. Orange Surge uses extracts from natural plant origins and pure organic essential oils certified by the Soil Association, Britain's leading campaigning and certification organisation for organic food and farming. In November last year, Organic Surge Tropical Bergamot Body Lotion was voted best organic moisturiser on Britain's Channel 4 TV show How to Look Good Naked.
What makes it stand out from other organic brands? 'We hope to make a difference, not just to our customers, but also to the people whom this brand supports,' says chief executive MacKenzie, who was shocked when he found out how many chemicals were in toiletries. 'Every single Organic Surge product sold in all markets, including Hong Kong, contributes to the company's ongoing efforts to support Africa's most vulnerable children, including the Thomas Barnardo Orphanage in Kenya and Watoto in Uganda.'
Where can I get it and how much does it cost? The full body-care and hair-care ranges are available at some Watson's stores. Items are priced between HK$89 and HK$139. For more product details, tel: 3426 2584; or go to organicsurge.com.