Pennywise to retail ZO Skin Health range

Pennywise Cosmetics Ltd, a leading health and beauty retail chain in the Caribbean, has been granted exclusive commercial rights to distribute the ZO Skin Health line of medical-grade skincare products in Trinidad and Tobago. This decision follows a resolution of a legal dispute between Pennywise and the Maraval-based Skin Health Institute (SHI), led by dermatologist Dr. Rachel Eckel. The SHI had previously obtained a High Court injunction in April 2024, preventing Pennywise from selling ZO Skin Health products in its ten local outlets, arguing that the products should only be sold under medical supervision. Pennywise contested the injunction, asserting that it had legally imported genuine products and offered them at competitive prices. After months of negotiations, both parties reached a settlement, allowing Pennywise to become the exclusive authorized retailer. Justice Joan Charles had initially ruled in favor of SHI, stating that Pennywise’s marketing practices created a false impression of an exclusive partnership with SHI, potentially misleading customers. Despite allegations of unfair competition and “passing off” by SHI, Eckel, and Dermedica Medical Ltd., Pennywise maintained its innocence, emphasizing its commitment to honest business practices. The settlement marks a significant milestone for Pennywise, reinforcing its position in the Caribbean’s health and beauty market. ZO Skin Health products, developed by renowned dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi, are now set to reach a broader audience through Pennywise’s extensive retail network.