Famille C anticipates acquiring Ilia Beauty by mid-2022

11 Feb 2022 --- Famille C, Courtin-Clarins family, owner of cosmetics company Clarins, has signed a contract for acquiring Ilia, a US skincare and makeup brand. Illia is known for its clean-centric skincare and makeup approach, growing its reputation over the past ten years.

“This brand [Ilia] is incredibly relevant and has huge potential. This operation demonstrates Famille C’s determination to identify and support great ideas and devoted teams who are innovating to keep the beauty industry moving forward,” explains Prisca Courtin-Clarins, deputy CEO of Famille C.

“From a strategic point of view, the acquisition is in line with our goal of supporting exceptional brands that share our values and vision, and it will strengthen our foothold in the US,” adds Prisca.

Synergies in planet-friendly beauty
Competition authorities will examine the transaction in the coming months. Famille C expects approval during the first half of 2022. 

The acquisition is essential for Famille C, as it aims to promote innovation in the beauty and care industries. Ilia’s innovation develops nourishing and moisturizing makeup and skincare products that revive the skin.  

Additionally, its stance on clean and responsible beauty places skincare as the foundation to beauty, “wake up skin, make up the rest.” Its understanding of clean beauty combines natural ingredients with synthetic ones to make up and protect against the deterioration of active ingredients. Clarins observes and researches plants to create innovative skincare and makeup products, with 40% of 200 organic ingredients. 

“When I started ILIA, there was a curiosity to make products more skin and planet-friendly. After a decade of deep exploration in these areas, I am thrilled to partner with a global family powerhouse whose mission clearly states, “passing on a more beautiful planet,” comments Sasha Plavsic, founder of Ilia.

“Both Ilia, Famille C and Clarins share similar values that include creating exceptional products coupled with an awareness around driving sustainability. The ability to collaborate and strive toward the same goals brings more meaning to what the Ilia team can do.” 

Ilia follows sustainable packaging by using recycled aluminum, glass components and responsibly sourced paper. However, they believe that this is insufficient; they wish to prevent products from ending up in landfills. 

“Sustainable trade agreements [are offered], in which full traceability of growing areas as well as long-term contracts with our partners are given priority,” since ingredients are sourced abroad. Clarins follows responsible sourcing of ingredients for good agriculture and maintenance of local plants.

Plavsic will reportedly maintain a minority share and continue managing Ilia with its team. Therefore, Ilia will remain independent and also benefit from Clarins’ support. 

Famille C and Clarins will hold a minority share in Ilia’s financial assets. 

Clarins recently made advancements in social responsibility through its Union for Ethical Biotrade membership. 

In other news on business acquisitions, Amyris acquires EcoFabulous, and Cresco snaps up Sierra Sage Herbs.

Edited by Venya Patel