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High value mergers and acquisitions (M&A) have been making headline news for the beauty industry during the first quarter of 2021. CVC bought Shiseido’s skincare and shampoo brand in early February for $1 billion, and customizable beauty brand Function of Beauty secured a $150 million strategic investment from heavyweight private equity firm L Catterton, with plans to fuel rapid growth. Then later in the month, Estée Lauder Companies Inc. announced that it will increase its investment in Toronto-based, multi-brand company Deciem Beauty Group Inc. from 29% to 76%. Deciem’s brands include cult skincare names The Ordinary and Niod, both of which are key contributors to the incumbent’s $460 million net sales in the 12 months up to February 2021.
Also in February, Unilever CEO Alan Jope hinted at plans for new acquisitions in the prestige beauty category, after announcing a strategic portfolio reshuffle to separate out some smaller brands, and make space for others with high growth prospects.
After what could have been a disastrous 2020 for the beauty industry, M&A numbers like this are one of many indicators that beauty is burning a bright path into the future. But why are beauty brands pulling such big figures — and what makes certain brands more investable than others?