From collecting paper CVs in stores to fully digitalized recruiting: with nCore HR, Douglas Italy has made its hiring processes faster, safer, and more sustainable—while improving both the candidate experience and recruiter efficiency.

Client Profile

Douglas is Europe’s leading beauty and cosmetics retailer. With over 18,000 employees and a presence in more than 20 countries, the company combines a vast network of physical stores with a rapidly growing digital presence.

Recognized as a benchmark in the beauty sector, Douglas integrates innovation and customer experience, engaging millions of clients across Europe and strengthening its positioning as a modern, responsible brand.

The Challenge

Like many retailers, Douglas traditionally managed paper CVs submitted directly in stores. This approach, however, led to several challenges:

• Operational inefficiency → long times for collection, review, and storage.

• High costs → physical handling and archiving of documents.

• Data management risks → difficulty ensuring GDPR compliance.

• Prolonged selection times → manual, non-scalable review process.

• Environmental impact → heavy paper use, conflicting with sustainability goals.

A transformation was needed to make recruiting more digital, efficient, and sustainable.

The Solution

Douglas chose nCore HR to fully digitalize its recruitment process, eliminating paper CVs and introducing innovative tools.

A key innovation was the use of QR codes in stores:

• For every open position, a unique QR code is generated in nCore HR.

• Candidates scan it with their smartphone to access the online application page.

• Applications, including CV uploads, are completed digitally.

Additionally, Douglas introduced features such as recorded video interviews, allowing candidates to present themselves more fully than with a traditional CV.

The Results

1. Centralization and Digitalization of Recruiting

All applications managed in a single platform, with a structured, easily searchable database.

2. Operational Efficiency and Cost Reduction

Eliminating paper accelerated workflows and reduced management costs.

3. Secure Data Management and GDPR Compliance

Candidate data stored securely with automated, compliant retention policies.

4. Improved Candidate Experience

Thanks to QR codes and digital tools, applications are simple, fast, and user-friendly.

5. Environmental Sustainability

Reducing paper usage supports Douglas’ ESG goals, strengthening its image as a responsible brand.

Looking Ahead

Through recruiting digitalization, Douglas has made its processes faster, more sustainable, and fully compliant. The company plans to further expand its use of digital tools to strengthen its employer brand and attract talent aligned with its values of innovation and sustainability.