Why booming beauty pop-ups are letting consumers down

By Nyima Jobe | Published: 27-Feb-2025

A recent NARS pop up has caused backlash among fans for overcrowding, which begs the question, are brands failing to balance the hype with a seamless customer experience?

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NARS Cosmetics’ latest pop-up event in Covent Garden, London, UK, has left some beauty fans frustrated, with many taking to social media to voice their disappointment over poor organisation, long queues and misleading marketing of sample sizes.

Held over the weekend, the The Players’ Lounge pop-up was designed to showcase the brand’s most popular foundations in a gaming-inspired setting. 

It comprised seven experiences which were influenced by the “vibrant energy of gaming parlours”, promising a “theatrical” environment.

The two-day experiential London-based space was the brand’s response to consumer demand for more in-person experiences. 

Although it promised a unique experience, free coffee and exclusive merchandise, the event became a source of frustration for some attendees, who reported chaotic crowd management and a lack of communication from staff.

Disappointed attendees flooded TikTok with complaints, with some warning others not to waste their time. One user, @lifeupdatesofamel, said: “If you’re thinking of coming to the NARS pop-up, don’t. 

“People have been here since 5am and it’s now 10am. Security unable to manage lines, people pushing and shoving, staff not communicating with guests or security – really poorly organised.”

Another visitor criticised the lack of crowd control, stating: “No organisation, no staff communicating with customers, no safety measures in place, no barriers to manage the line.”

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