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Created
in Italy - Packaged for America A laboratory in Milan
developed a micro-encapsulated
mosquito repellent patch, based on natural essential oils. How an American marketer and their design studio created the Skeeter
Defense Patch and got it into Walmart.
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Each micro-encapsulated patch is saturated
with long-lasting essential oils. But
can a natural repellent compete against heavily promoted chemical brands?
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Larus Pharma is based in Milan, where a number of
pharmaceutical and cosmetic companies are based. Larus discovered a process to imbed essential oils of citronella and eucaplyptus
into a small patch. When scratched, the patch emits a steady fragrance that repels mosquitos for up to 6 hours. But the patches are plain in appearance, and the promise of protection by a natural protect needs credibility building.
The importer of the patch, Lanco Research, came up with the name "Skeeter Defense Patch" and their design studio,
the design spot in New York, continued the whimsical theme with a unique package that
is both arresting and engaging. Walmart
was intrigued, but could not find space in the tight planogram for insect protection - SC Johnson's OFF! has that pretty much
under control. But by placing the Skeeter Defense Patch on wing displays, they found space near First Aid, and the brand continues
to offer a natural alternative to DEET and other chemical-based repellents.
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