The Japanese cosmetics company Shiseido, which turned 140 last year, is taking the old Shinto tradition of writing wishes on wooden plaques to the Western world in the new promotion. Originally, these pieces of wood, Emas, were taken to temples so that spirits or gods could read them—now Shiseido USA is asking its customers to leave virtual wishes in the Facebook space. The brand has launched a Facebook app #SharetheEma, allowing anyone in the world to choose a wish written on a digital decorated piece and share it with a friend.

The adopters of the famous Greek fabulist Aesop’s approach, the namesake London-based agency has conducted a comprehensive research among 1530 18+ U.K. residents to reveal the top 10 ‘storytelling’ brands, referred to as those that are “engaging, memorable, with unique character and personality, with a clear sense of purpose/vision, authentic and believable,” among other storytelling credentials.

Nielsen, a global consumer insights company, has conducted a survey to define the differences in the behavior of modern shoppers across the globe. The «New Wealth, New World» study, based on opinions of more than 29,000 online respondents in 58 countries, shows that in different regions people are driven by different factors (sometimes, opposite ones) when choosing consumer goods.

In August 2013, Michael Kors is set to launch its first-ever beauty collection in collaboration with Estèe Lauder Cosmetics.  The three new lines Sporty, Sexy and Glam will have their own voice and make a harmonious trio. The release will be supported by an advertising campaign featuring prints and a TV commercial starring fashion model Karmen Pedaru, shot by the world’s celebrated photographer Mario Testino.

The Body Shop has a new celebrity in its team of ambassadors. The new face of the cosmetics brand is celebrated British singer Leona Lewis, who has seven Brit Awards and three Grammy Awards nominations. As the new brand activist, Leona will be spreading awareness of the cruelty-free cosmetics philosophy adopted by The Body Shop and realized through its fair-trade, ethically sourced and 100% plant-based ranges. Plus, the signer has collaborated with the brand to produce a new make-up and fragrance collection. Being a vegetarian and animal rights activist herself, Leona Lewis is a perfect fit for the new partnership.