This week, the global cosmetics and personal care industry highlighted the growing convergence of retail transformation, portfolio restructuring and international expansion, as global groups advanced acquisitions, omnichannel strategies and manufacturing realignment across key markets.
M&A and ownership developments remained active across luxury and beauty. LVMH agreed to sell Marc Jacobs to WHP Global. Reports also emerged that Armani was considering the sale of a 15 percent stake, with L’Oréal, LVMH and EssilorLuxottica among the parties linked to discussions.
Leadership and governance changes also featured prominently. Ouai appointed Susan Kim as CEO to support global expansion plans. Boots was reported to have selected Currys CEO Alex Baldock ahead of a potential IPO. Victoria’s Secret rejected activist investor Brett Blundy’s push for board representation.
Financial performance and market growth updates continued across the sector. DOUGLAS Group reported Q2 sales growth as it accelerated its omnichannel strategy. LG Household & Health Care returned to profit as its North America strategy gained momentum. Henkel Consumer Brands posted Q1 growth supported by Hair Care and Not Your Mother’s performance. Kenvue reported Q1 sales and profit growth as its deal with Kimberly-Clark progressed. In Latin America, Natura reported revenue pressure in Brazil and Argentina linked to the integration of Avon.
Retail expansion and international growth strategies remained active. L’Oréal expanded operations in Saudi Arabia with a new office in Jeddah and workforce growth plans. Natura expanded its omnichannel strategy through a launch on Mercado Libre Mexico. Amorepacific reopened its flagship AMORE YONGSAN store in Seoul and launched MAMONDE exclusively on Amazon Premium Beauty in the US.
Manufacturing, packaging and supply chain developments continued across the sector. Shiseido confirmed plans to close its Taiwan manufacturing facility and transfer production to Japan. Henkel upgraded its Packaging Competence Center to accelerate sustainable packaging innovation. Evonik exceeded Q1 profit expectations as Middle East tensions led customers to increase stockpiling activity.
Brand marketing and category expansion remained active across beauty and lifestyle segments. Dove Men+Care launched a FIFA World Cup 2026 skincare campaign focused on football fans. ASICS introduced a beauty campaign centred on post-exercise glow. Valentino Beauty expanded its Born in Roma range with new Hair & Body Mists.
Legal and trademark disputes also remained in focus. Zara denied trademark infringement allegations in the Estée Lauder an Jo Malone lawsuit. Estée Lauder agreed to a US$210 million settlement linked to China grey-market sales. Harper Beckham faced a US trademark setback tied to a proposed beauty brand launch.
Regional market performance and industry growth continued to shape activity. China’s cosmetics trade surpassed RMB170 billion as market growth accelerated. Little Soap Company received the 2026 King’s Award for Sustainability.
Taken together, this week reflected continued activity across retail expansion, portfolio restructuring and operational transformation, alongside ongoing legal developments and international growth initiatives shaping the global cosmetics and personal care landscape.
