The Gillette Razor Company produces some of the world's most popular replacement-blade razors. In 2006, the company replaced its three-bladed Mach-3 model with a new five-bladed razor called the Gillette Fusion. With two extra blades, some users believe the Fusion provides a closer, smoother shave than previous models. While Gillette enjoys brisk sales for the Fusion, some users and reviews have noticed problems with this razor that may impact long-term growth.
Cost
With an estimated retail price above $10, the Gillette fusion is among the most expensive replacement-blade razors on the market according to Consumer Search. In addition, replacement blades for this unit cost nearly $3 each, making them much pricier than similar razor styles. According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, today's Fusion cartridges cost three times as much as the company's top-end cartridges from 1971, even after pricing is adjusted for inflation. To make blades seem more affordable and increase sales, Gillette switched cartridges from packs of four to packs of three according to Kellogg School of Management. While the overall price for the package went down, the price per cartridge remains roughly the same.
Environmental Impact
In 2007, consumer groups in Australia awarded their annual Golden Dump award to the Gillette Fusion according to the Australian News Network. The razor was recognized for its excessive use of packaging, which includes a tough plastic over-wrap combined with cardboard, paper and soft plastic inner wrappings. Unlike many electrical shavers, the Fusion requires replacement cartridges after every 4 to 7 shaves. These cartridges end up in landfills and contribute to pollution over time. More eco-friendly shavers can switch to electric razors to reduce energy consumption, preserve resources and divert waste from landfills.
Negligible Benefits
According to Consumer Search, few if any studies or tests exist to show an advantage of shaving with five blades versus shaving with two or three blades. This lack of evidence makes it difficult for some users to justify the higher price point of the Gillette Fusion. The New York Times also warns that five-bladed razors could actually be worse for your skin than models with fewer blades. From a dermatological standpoint, five blades may be overkill, resulting in greater friction and skin irritation. This could actually result in poorer shaving results due to an increase in nicks and razor burn.
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