L'Oréal Acquires Majority Stake in UK Skincare Brand Medik8
Deal News | Jun 10, 2025 | EIN
L'Oréal Groupe, the French cosmetics giant, has acquired a majority stake in the UK-based skincare company Medik8. The acquisition, supported by the global law firm A&O Shearman, is part of L'Oréal's strategy to enhance its skincare portfolio. The transaction allows L'Oréal to eventually buy out the minority shareholders, except for Inflexion, a European mid-market private equity firm that retains its stake. Medik8, known for its Crystal Retinal serum and Vitamin C day cream, was founded by Elliot Isaacs in 2009 and has been expanding its presence in the US. With this acquisition, L'Oréal aims to leverage Medik8's proven efficacy products at accessible price points to enhance its global brand presence. The transaction is expected to close in the coming months, pending regulatory approvals.
Sectors
- Cosmetics & Beauty
- Private Equity
- Legal Services
Geography
- United Kingdom – Medik8 is a UK-based skincare brand, and A&O Shearman has a significant operational presence in London.
- France – L'Oréal Groupe is headquartered in France, making it a central geography to the transaction.
- United States – Medik8 is expanding its presence in the US market, and legal services were also provided by A&O Shearman associates in the US.
Industry
- Cosmetics & Beauty – L'Oréal is a major player in the cosmetics and beauty industry, and Medik8 is a skincare brand, both falling under this sector.
- Private Equity – Inflexion, a private equity firm, is involved in this transaction by retaining its share in Medik8.
- Legal Services – A&O Shearman provided legal advisory services, particularly in the areas of mergers and acquisitions, incentives, tax, and antitrust.
Financials
- Not Disclosed – The financial details of the transaction between L'Oréal and Medik8 were not disclosed.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| L'Oréal Groupe | Buyer | Company | A French multinational cosmetics and beauty company that has acquired a majority stake in Medik8. |
| Medik8 | Target | Company | A UK-based skincare brand known for its science-backed skincare products. |
| A&O Shearman | Legal Advisor | Company | A global law firm that advised L'Oréal on the acquisition of Medik8. |
| Inflexion | Shareholder | Company | A European mid-market private equity firm retaining its stake in Medik8. |
| Elliot Isaacs | Founder | Person | The founder of Medik8 who remains involved with the company post-acquisition. |