• October 23, 2003

Ever wonder what it would be like to make important business decisions at a large global cosmetics company? If you are an MBA or undergraduate student, look no further than L'Oreal's 4th annual e-Strat Challenge. This online business simulation process is an opportunity for students to test their business skills in a realistic market environment, by allowing them to assume the role of General Manager.

One thousand teams comprised of three students each, will be selected to compete. Over the course of five weeks they will be tested on all aspects of running a cosmetic business: from pricing to research and development, from advertising to brand positioning.

Four virtual companies will challenge and respond to each move. Then, 250 teams will make it to the semi-finals from which 14 teams will be selected to travel to Paris for the International Finals in April of 2004.

The finalists will have an opportunity to "sell" their company and strategy to L'Oreal senior executives. Two worldwide winners will emerge, one from the undergraduate competition and one MBA team.

Registration for the e-Strat Challenge began on October 20 (http://www.e-strat.loreal.com) and will last for six weeks. The top two winning teams receive a one-week trip to the destination of their choice.

Since its inception, more than 25,000 students from 800 schools and universities around the world have taken the Challenge.