This week, the global cosmetics and personal care industry highlighted continued activity across corporate restructuring, international expansion and category development, as companies advanced portfolio changes, manufacturing investment and leadership appointments while responding to shifting consumer demand and regulatory requirements.

Financial performance and corporate strategy featured prominently. H&M’s founding family increased its ownership stake as the retailer continued its turnaround efforts, while Sa Sa forecast a more than threefold increase in first-half profit as beauty sales strengthened. Yatsen paused acquisitions as skincare increased to 70 percent of sales, reflecting a greater focus on its existing portfolio. Galderma, meanwhile, joined Switzerland’s blue-chip Swiss Market Index.

Ownership and portfolio restructuring remained active. The Arnault family moved to consolidate its controlling LVMH stake within Agache SCA as part of a simplification of the group’s ownership structure. Unilever agreed to sell Zwitsal to Royal Sanders, while Macquarie PE acquired Hwasung Cosmetics and Nowcos for KRW300 billion.

Manufacturing and supply-side developments continued across global markets. L’Oréal invested EGP240 million to expand its manufacturing capacity in the MENA region. INEOS idled its Hull acetyls plants as European energy costs continued to affect manufacturing economics, while BASF was reported to have explored a potential transaction involving Evonik as consolidation pressures continued across the European chemicals sector. Indonesia also outlined plans to increase cosmetics exports as its domestic industry expands.

Brand expansion and category development remained active. Bella Freud entered beauty and personal care through an exclusive partnership with Boots, while Sweaty Betty expanded into beauty and wellness through the retailer.

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