Agree Shampoo, once a popular brand known for its fresh scent and lightweight formula, was discontinued due to several factors. Here’s an overview of why it struggled and how it made a comeback:
1. Corporate Takeovers
Agree faced multiple corporate takeovers, causing instability and halting production in the U.S. However, Japan revived the brand by launching a new product line and re-establishing its presence.
2. Limited Product Line
Agree’s initial range was limited, which contributed to its decline. When relaunched in Japan, it introduced a broader product line, including hair masks with argan oil and keratin, revitalizing the brand.
3. Weak Marketing Strategy
Original marketing efforts failed to effectively highlight the brand’s unique features. After relaunching, Agree revamped its marketing to emphasize its oil-free, pH-balanced, and cruelty-free formulas, appealing to modern consumers.
4. Fragrance Issues
Agree’s iconic fragrance, popular in the ’80s, lost appeal over time. In its comeback, Agree improved the fragrance with soothing notes like ocean breeze, lemon, basil, and patchouli, which resonated with consumers.
5. Lack of Value Addition
The brand initially lacked unique features compared to competitors. Post-comeback, it expanded its product range with hair fragrances, body soaps, and hand creams, adding more value and attracting a wider audience.
6. Impact of Social Media
The rise of platforms like Instagram and TikTok altered consumer behavior, diminishing demand for traditional brands like Agree.
7. Changes in Shopping Trends
The shift to e-commerce and online reviews impacted traditional retail brands, leading to declining sales for Agree.
The Journey from California to Japan
Agree started in California but struggled. In 1994, the Dep Corporation took over in Japan, where it found renewed success with an improved product lineup.
Can You Still Buy Agree Shampoo?
Today, Agree offers a revamped line of shampoos, conditioners, and treatment masks featuring essential oils, keratin, and argan oil, free from parabens and color-safe for various hair types.
Conclusion
Agree Shampoo’s discontinuation resulted from corporate instability, limited products, weak marketing, and outdated fragrances. Its revival in Japan brought success, and today it thrives with a modern product lineup tailored to current consumer demands.
