This week, the global cosmetics and personal care industry recorded major acquisition activity, contrasting financial performances and new investment in research and technology, alongside corporate restructuring, leadership appointments and international expansion.

M&A activity led the headlines. PAI Partners agreed to acquire Elemis from L’Occitane Group, with plans to accelerate the skincare brand’s international growth. Kimberly-Clark completed its acquisition of Kenvue, bringing brands including Neutrogena and Johnson’s Baby into its portfolio. Meanwhile, CVC, Cinven and Puig emerged as potential bidders for fragrance house Parfums de Marly.

Financial results revealed significant differences in performance across the industry. e.l.f. Beauty reported 51 percent sales growth and raised its outlook, while Estée Lauder recorded a 7 percent increase in sales and upgraded its forecast. Kenvue reported 5.1 percent growth in its Skin Health and Beauty division, while APR Corporation delivered a 100.3 percent increase in revenue, supported by international demand.

Other cosmetics businesses faced more challenging conditions. Coty reported a 1 percent sales decline despite improving performance across its prestige brands. The Honest Company recorded an 8.6 percent revenue decline but raised its full-year outlook. Amorepacific reported a 14.3 percent fall in profit despite sales growth, while Proya achieved 29.8 percent revenue growth as higher marketing expenditure affected profitability.

Corporate restructuring and financial planning featured prominently. Unilever outlined plans to deliver €1 billion in savings through its restructuring programme, while Estée Lauder established growth and profitability targets through 2030. Procter & Gamble secured US$4 billion in long-term financing to support its financial strategy.

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