Atomic Pom Labs is a cosmetic development agency founded by Annie Graham. As an expert who has been treating skin conditions for over a decade, Graham started APL in order to apply her extensive experience to help grow independent beauty and cosmetic brands as well as support innovative entrepreneurs. We spoke with Graham, who is not only the founder but also the CEO of APL, to learn more.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Atomic Pom Labs. We are a cosmetic development agency. We formulate and manufacture skin and hair care for global brands. We also do branding, SEO, regulatory and communication for our clients in the beauty space.
What made you want to do this work?
I love science, building things, and cosmetic chemistry is also very creative. It really is a combination of all the things I love to do.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
To give indie brands access to innovation, small batch production and professional services they would otherwise not find for their company size.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
We have clients worldwide. We formulate under several regulatory bodies so brands can easily expand to foreign markets. Our clients are small business in the 1 to 5 million dollar range.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We make money with cosmetic formulation, manufacturing, and design
Where in the city can we find your profession?
We have HQ in Calgary, Alberta and Wyoming and are not a public space, but can be found at www.atomicpomlabs.com
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
There are so many questions that customer needs to ask a business like ours, but I think the main thing is to get clear on what all is included in the cost.
This is because it’s hard to compare services in this industry. It is usually up to the customer to project manage every aspect of their product development, which can be difficult if they are new to the industry. APL is designed to be more cohesive when it comes to the process, including the formulation, production, design and even marketing and PR.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
We love working closely with our clients for formulation and brand integration. This is very unique in this niche. The worst part is that we can not and do not take everyone. Although we love being a first choice, we do screen our clients to ensure they understand the investment, time and journey they will be taking.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
Science keeps nature from killing you. We value scientific research, data and innovation over clean or green beauty myths.
Where can we follow you?
We are active on Instagram. Professionally, we can also be found on LinkedIn as well as on our website.
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
I find that chefs and chemists have many similar characteristics and talents. I like very “chefy” food. Right now, I love Bar Gigi in Calgary.
