Unilever acquires majority stake in Equilibra
The brand was founded in 1987 and has expanded in the natural personal care category in Italy, where it is represented in the skin care, hair care and nutritional supplement areas.
The brand has been built around both its Italian heritage and the use of natural and functional ingredients that include Aloe, Karite’, Argan and almond.
Established by Franco Blanco, the company’s cosmetics and personal care range now covers many categories, including baby care, specialist face care, a trichology hair care line and a range of natural oils.
A good fit for Unilever
Unilever has been expanding its footprint in the beauty and personal care area considerably in recent years, so this latest acquisition should serve to further reinforce its continued growth.
“Equilibra is very well-positioned in the wellbeing space in Italy and complements perfectly our existing offering,” said Alan Jope, Unilever president of Beauty & Personal Care.
“The Equilibra brand enjoys great recognition in the market, and we see opportunities for further development in what is a fast-growing segment.”
Equilibra positioned for international expansion
Equally, the acquisition should serve to help expand Equilibra’s international footprint, given that it can now tap into Unilever’s extensive distribution network, both in Europe and worldwide.
“We are delighted to work together with Unilever to take the next step in our journey. We aim to spread the Italian Beauty and Wellbeing abroad and strengthen our presence in Italy,” said Blanco.
The business will continue to be run as a standalone operation that will be headed up by Blanco and his family, with Marco Blanco and Franco Blanco serving as CEO and honorary chairman at the company’s Turin headquarters.
