MAC Cosmetics Makes Its Debut at Sephora U.S. After 41 Years

MAC Cosmetics is officially entering Sephora U.S., marking a significant milestone for the iconic makeup brand. Nicola Formichetti, MAC’s global creative director, described this collaboration as two legends coming together. Starting from March 2, MAC will be available in 105 Sephora locations and online, including all Sephora concessions at Kohl’s Inc.

Strategic Move to Accelerate Growth

Tara Simon, President of the Americas at Estée Lauder Companies, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating that entering Sephora taps into a rapidly growing retail channel. “To not have MAC at Sephora, where they’re both such OGs, is something that’s finally being rectified,” she remarked.

Part of a Larger Corporate Strategy

The launch aligns with CEO Stéphane de La Faverie’s strategy to boost sales by concentrating on expanding fast-growing channels. Following successful launches on platforms like Amazon for brands such as Clinique and Too Faced, MAC’s entry into Sephora is seen as a timely move to revitalize its presence in North America.

Targeting a Younger Audience

Cori Reinartz, Senior Vice President and General Manager of MAC North America, pointed out that the Sephora partnership will allow MAC to connect with a younger demographic. The brand has already resonated well with this audience through innovative products like the MAC Lipglass Air Non-Sticky Gloss.

Performance Insights and Market Trends

According to Estée Lauder’s second-quarter fiscal report for 2026, while overall makeup sales dipped slightly, MAC’s growth, driven partly by its Sephora launch, countered this trend. The increase was attributed to strong performances, notably in the lip category. In contrast, MAC had faced challenges previously due to a decline in its face product sales.

Exclusive Product Launches

As part of its relationship with Sephora U.S., MAC will introduce exclusive products, including the Multisculpt Matte Liquid Colour for Eyes and Face, which will debut two months ahead of other retailers. This strategy aims to optimize the brand’s market presence and appeal to diverse customer segments.

Redefining Brand Image and Engagement Strategies

Formichetti is pushing for a fresh perspective on MAC’s brand image, highlighting the importance of creative marketing campaigns that showcase a softer approach while retaining the brand’s artistry roots. The upcoming campaign will feature celebrities like Chappell Roan and will aim to connect with both long-time fans and new audiences, including Gen Z.

Positioning MAC in a Competitive Landscape

Despite tough competition from emerging brands founded by makeup artists, Formichetti believes MAC can carve out a niche by continuously innovating and engaging customers through cultural relevance. As Simon asserted, today’s consumers often prefer a mixed basket of brands, fostering a healthy ecosystem in specialty makeup retail.

Future Prospects and Ongoing Developments

Looking forward, MAC is not only continuing its Sephora expansion but also maintaining its presence in Ulta Beauty and TikTok Shop, emphasizing a diversified retail strategy. The brand has recently returned to growth after a challenging period, celebrating significant milestones under new leadership and innovative strategies.