British gender-neutral skincare brand Honey Corn has officially signed a landmark deal with Matro Group, one of China’s most prestigious luxury department store operators, to debut its innovative skincare range in Suzhou.
Back in 2021 National Enterprise Network (NEN) were involved in a cross border launch pad pilot to support early-stage potential exporters and active exporters wanting to expand their exporting footprint. One of the participants, Honey Corn, has been hugely successful.
The collaboration will see Honey Corn join an exclusive selection of British brands featured in the highly anticipated British Pavilion, set to open in May 2025 at Matro’s flagship Suzhou locations. This cultural and commercial showcase aims to spotlight the best of British craftsmanship, creativity, and clean beauty innovation.
“Like Selfridges or John Lewis in the UK, Matro is a trend-setting force in the Chinese retail world,” said a spokesperson from the China Britain Business Council (CBBC). “The Pavilion will allow Chinese consumers to explore British brands both in-store and online via Matro’s cutting-edge e-commerce VR platform.”
Ayesha Ibrahim, CEO and Founder of Honey Corn, shared her excitement:
“We’re beyond thrilled to be working with Matro Group. This opportunity places Honey Corn among a handpicked group of visionary British brands representing heritage, ethical innovation, and quality. It’s a proud moment for us and for sustainable British skincare.”
Isabella Liu Director for UK and Ireland and Business Representative for Boundless Matro Groups says,
“We are looking forward to our exciting journey together!
The partnership was born from the UK Department for Business and Trade’s (DBT) Meet the Buyer initiative, described as a “business matchmaking experience” that brought Honey Corn face-to-face with potential Chinese retail partners during its February 2024 edition.
Crafted with botanic, organic, and ethically sourced ingredients, Honey Corn products celebrate the natural world – powered by pollinators like honeybees – and are packaged to reflect the brand’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The brand has also been featured in the pages of Vogue, Tatler, GQ, and Mayfair Magazine, earning praise for its commitment to conscious luxury and clean beauty.
Honey Corn has received multiple accolades, including:
· British Beauty Council Member (2025)
· European Business Magazine’s Leading Innovative Entrepreneur Award (2020)
· Best Ethical Cosmetics – Eco Living Awards (2024)
· Sublime Magazine’s Good Brand Award (2024)
· Kensington Chelsea & Westminster Chamber of Commerce – Best Retailer Finalist (2023)
· Westminster Business Council – Shortlisted Growth Business of the Year (2023)
· The Good Small Business Award Finalist (2023) Explore Honey Corn’s full range at www.honeycornuk.com