Merle Norman Snapshot
Merle Norman Cosmetics has built its foundation on offering samples to customers so they can "try before they buy." The beauty company, founded by a young woman named Merle Norman, opened its first shop in Santa Monica, California, in 1931. Merle Norman makes and markets skin care products and color cosmetics that are sold through some 2,000 independently owned and operated retail outlets -- Merle Norman Cosmetic Studios -- in the US, Canada, Mexico, and the United Arab Emirates. Many of its studios are located in malls. Merle Norman's several brand names include Automatic Definitive, Inspirations, Luxiva, Only Natural, and more. The company is owned by chairman Jack Nethercutt, Norman's great-nephew.