PHX Global

Natural Latex Sponges Making A Return In The Cosmetics Business

stevew@phxglobal.com (Steve Wilson) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:40:31 EST

More a media-generated event than a real allergy concern.

It began in the late 1980\'s with a small number of hospital workers who showed a reaction to disposable gloves and catheters. At a time of high demand for protection against infectious diseases, it was found that the market was flooded with gloves manufactured by a slew of inexperienced Third World suppliers using processes that didn\'t wash, leach, soak, process or cure the latex sufficiently to remove the excess proteins. The presence of these proteins caused the reactions experienced at the time.

For the consumer-based cosmetic industry, the resulting media attention created an opportunity for a new and much cheaper breed of cosmetic sponges made from petroleum by-products. The market quickly transitioned to polyurethane foam for cosmetic applicators, marking a departure from NATURAL LATEX that exists to this day.

NATURAL LATEX is a natural raw material and was the original material used for cosmetic applicators and makeup wedges. Rubber trees (Heave brasiliensis) produce the milky, viscous liquid that is collected much like the sap for maple syrup. \"The ultra fine pore of NATURAL LATEX, its smooth surface and elastic characteristics are what established this material as the ideal product for the category,\" says Diana Pitsolis of The Beauty Company in Toronto.

NATURAL LATEX contains between 2-3% proteins with only one protein having been identified as potentially allergenic \"TEP protein.\" As with many natural products, how much of each protein is in the sap and how much remains after production is never known, yet through processing the majority, if not all, of the TEP protein is destroyed. Furthermore, innovative methods have been developed to leach the proteins out of the latex, chiefly among them a thorough washing process at high temperatures.

NATURAL LATEX can be found in many common products such as condoms, Shea Butter creams, chewing gum, pillows, baby mattresses, elastic bands, balls, toys, rubber gloves, hot water bottles, balloons, contraceptives, bicycle handles and over 40,000 other medical and non-medical products.

NATURAL LATEX is certified healthy and ecologically friendly by strict European standards. The healthful attributes of natural latex are numerous and include anti-bacterial, biodegradable, inherently hypoallergenic, long lasting and free of carcinogenic chemicals.

With the goal of moving the cosmetic sponge industry back to more naturally-based products, Ms. Pitsolis sought experts in the industry and found the Donald Guthrie Foundation, a recognized expert in identifying natural proteins in latex. After years of using such testing methods as LEAP and ELISA, the foundation has yet to discover any research or concerns relating to latex sensitivities (TEP or other proteins) in any cosmetic sponge application.

In a world that is striving for more natural lifestyles, natural products, and the desire for fewer chemically derived products, the reintroduction of NATURAL LATEX in the cosmetics industry is long overdue.

[Data sources available upon request]

Phoenix Global Partners LLC Acquires Trade Mark Inc.

stevew@phxglobal.com (Steve Wilson) — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:27:50 EST

Cosmetic applicator manufacturer expands to offer container decorating

LEHIGH VALLEY, PA — November 30, 2007 — Phoenix Global Partners LLC announces the acquisition of all the assets of Trade Mark Inc., a leading container decorator in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania. The acquired company will operate as a sister company to Phoenix under the name Trade Mark LLC.

“For the past several years, our corporate mission has been to provide our customers with the highest level of service possible. The formation of Trade Mark LLC reinforces that goal. By working with our Cosmetic Tools and Professional Makeup Artist Supply divisions, we’ve expanded our capabilities to offer customers greater options for consolidating supply chain partners,” says Steve Wilson, managing member of both Phoenix and Trade Mark.

James Harris founded Trade Mark Inc. with Paul Ebert in 1994. The company offers silkscreening, pad printing, heat transfer, foil stamping, and pressure sensitive and security label application on plastic, glass and metal containers. All substrates, sizes and substances can be accommodated. Clients include the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, electronic, chemical and food industries.

The company is particularly known for its quality, speedy turn-around, and custom color matching. Ebert will remain with the business as plant manager, while Harris has decided to retire.

“Of all the prospects to carry on this business, we chose Phoenix because of the synergies between the companies,” says Jack Harris. “We also like the owners’ management style and are confident our customers will be treated with the high level of service they’ve come to expect. The company is poised for tremendous growth.”

#### Founded in 2005 by Susan Yoo, Robert Johnson and Steven Wilson, Phoenix Global Partners LLC manufactures, develops, and distributes cosmetic applicators worldwide. Its primary divisions are Phoenix Cosmetic Tools (contract manufacturing) and Phoenix Professional (makeup artist tools). ####

Silenz Beauty, Inc. and Phoenix Global Partners LLC sign agreement regarding popular beautyblender cosmetic sponge

stevew@phxglobal.com (Steve Wilson) — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 20:40:17 EST

Lehigh Valley based Phoenix to perform worldwide assembly and fulfillment for Hollywood company.

Phoenix Global Partners LLC announced it has signed an exclusive agreement with Silenz Beauty, Inc. for assembly and fulfillment of SilenzÃ¢ï¿½ï¿½s branded products for sales worldwide to retailers, retail distributors, makeup artist supply houses, and health and beauty suppliers. Phoenix will also fulfill consumer orders generated through SilenzÃ¢ï¿½ï¿½s web site www.beautyblender.net. The agreement includes all products sold under the brands beautyblender, blendercleanser, blendercleanser to go and Pro Line.

Ã¢ï¿½ï¿½WeÃ¢ï¿½ï¿½re very excited to be working with Silenz and to be affiliated with the beautyblender line,Ã¢ï¿½ï¿½ commented Susan Yoo, managing member for Phoenix and head of product development. Ã¢ï¿½ï¿½I worked with Rea Ann and Veronica when they were initially developing the sponge, and am personally thrilled at their amazing success.Ã¢ï¿½ï¿½

Ã¢ï¿½ï¿½We wanted to move this part of our business to the east coast, and Phoenix was the logical partner,Ã¢ï¿½ï¿½ stated Cathy Bailey, business manager for Silenz. Ã¢ï¿½ï¿½IÃ¢ï¿½ï¿½ve known the owners of Phoenix for years, and have great respect for how they run their operations."

The agreement marks PhoenixÃ¢ï¿½ï¿½s expansion into distribution services since it purchased Victoria Vogue, Inc.Ã¢ï¿½ï¿½s contract manufacturing operations in 2005.

Phoenix Global Partners LLC develops and distributes cosmetic sponges, puffs, flocked foam, brushes, and other cosmetic applicators for major cosmetic manufacturers, make-up artist supply houses, salons/spas, and medical products specialists. The company is owned by Susan Yoo, Steve Wilson, and Bob Johnson, and has offices and warehousing in Lehigh Valley, PA.

Silenz Beauty, Inc. is a manufacturer of various makeup products, and is owned by celebrity make-up artists and entrepreneurs Rea Ann Silva and Veronica Lorenz. The company is located in Encino, CA.

Phoenix Signs Exclusive Contract With Nichiei Rubber Company

stevew@phxglobal.com (Steve Wilson) — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 20:38:57 EST

December 4, 2006 - Bath, PA

Cosmetic applicator developer and distributor Phoenix Global Partners LLC announces it has signed an exclusive five-year contract with Japanese sponge manufacturer Nichiei Rubber Co., Ltd.

The agreement enables Phoenix to continue its exclusive role as sales, marketing, development and distribution arm of Nichiei for North America, South America and most of Europe.

“We’ve worked with Nichiei for many years; first with Victoria Vogue and now as Phoenix,” states managing member Susan Yoo. “And they have always been an excellent supply chain partner. We're excited to continue to develop new products and bring them to market."

Nichiei is known for producing high quality NBR sponge and pioneering new materials. After many years of testing and development, Phoenix introduced Paragon in May 2006. Paragon is an innovative urethane sponge known for its pure white color, durability, and luxurious feel.

Phoenix Global Partners introduces revolutionary alternative to long-standing, high-end cosmetic NBR sponge

stevew@phxglobal.com (Steve Wilson) — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 20:37:21 EST

Company offers Paragon Sponge to Cosmetics Industry

Bath, PA May 25, 2006: After years of research and development in collaboration with its Japanese partner, Phoenix Global Partners LLC announces it has an alternative to NBR (nitrile butadiene rubber) sponge, the reigning material for high quality cosmetic sponges used by well-known brands worldwide. This new material, sold exclusively by Phoenix in North America, South America, and Europe as Paragon, is pure white, odorless, resistant to oil, and does not change color. It is also washable and provides an extremely smooth and luxurious feel against the skin. The edges can be buffed or straight-cut, and the sponge can be made into virtually any shape. Paragon comes in two formulations: soft and firm. In its soft form, Paragon is recommended for powder foundation, and in its firm form is ideal for liquid foundation.

"We’re excited that after 60 years of just having variations of NBR for high quality sponges, customers now have a choice,” states Steve Wilson, head of sales and marketing for Phoenix. “We expect a great deal of interest in this exciting new material.”

Phoenix Global Partners LLC develops and distributes high quality cosmetic sponges, powder puffs, brushes, and other cosmetic applicators to major cosmetic manufacturers, and distributors to make-up artists in entertainment and media. The company is owned by Susan Yoo, Steve Wilson, and Bob Johnson, and has offices and warehousing in Bath, PA.

Press Release

stevew@phxglobal.com (Steve Wilson) — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 20:35:29 EST

Phoenix Global Partners emerges as successor to puff manufacturer Victoria Vogue. Three former Victoria Vogue executives purchase business from the 70-year old company.

Allentown, PA January 15, 2006: After over 70 years of business, cosmetic puff manufacturer Victoria Vogue has moved its business and operations to Phoenix Global Partners LLC, a Pennsylvania enterprise founded by former executives of the family-owned company. The asset purchase agreement transacted November 18 enables Phoenix to complete Victoria Vogue’s transition from a domestic manufacturer to overseas importer of cosmetic sponges, powder puffs, brushes, and other cosmetic applicators. Central to the deal is the transfer of exclusive supply agreements with Victoria Vogue’s current Asian-based manufacturers, who are licensed to use the same unique materials and machinery that made Victoria Vogue’s products the paragon of quality for decades. “We are very excited to have Phoenix emerge as [our customers’] new supplier,” wrote Susan Pomerantz, Victoria Vogue’s CEO and granddaughter of company founder Sam Pomerantz, in her letter to customers. By working with Victoria Vogue’s core manufacturing base, Phoenix can assure customers that their products will continue to meet their exact specifications.

At the heart of Phoenix’s strength is its extensive global network of factories that provides not only a more secure source of supply, but better access to innovative materials and the ability to drive down costs and pass savings on to customers. “Victoria Vogue provided an excellent basis for learning,” stated Bob Johnson, head of operations and owner of Phoenix, “and now it’s time to take it to the next level. Our business model is founded on the same commitment to service excellence, but with a clear focus on supply chain opportunities and bringing new materials to market.”

Phoenix is on track to complete the transition by December 2005. “The customer response has been amazing,” remarked owner Susan Yoo, head of product development and quality assurance, “we hear each day how thrilled they are with our service.“

Phoenix Global Partners LLC imports cosmetic sponges, powder puffs, brushes, and other cosmetic applicators to major cosmetic manufacturers, and distributors to make-up artists in entertainment and media. The company is owned by Susan Yoo, Steve Wilson, and Bob Johnson, and has offices and warehousing in Bath, PA.

Victoria Vogue, Inc. was the premier US manufacturer of powder puffs for nearly 70 years, and began distributing sponges and related applicators in the 1980s. Its customer base included all major cosmetic brands known worldwide. The company is located in Allentown, PA.