L’Occitane Group has sold British skin care brand Elemis to private equity firm PAI Partners.
The transaction, the price of which remains undisclosed, is said to mark the next phase of Elemis’ development after seven years with L’Occitane Group.
PAI Partners claimed it will work closely with the Elemis management team to support the brand’s continued growth, reinforcing its leadership in the UK, while also accelerating its expansion in the US.
“Elemis is a distinctive British skin care brand with exceptional products, a strong commitment to innovation and a loyal global following,” said Gaëlle d’Engremont and Colm O’Sullivan, Partners at PAI Partners.
“Its premium positioning, clinically proven product performance, and strong digital engagement set it apart in an attractive and resilient skin care market.
“We see significant opportunities to accelerate growth in the US and expand the brand’s digital business, while preserving its distinctive British identity.”
Other priorities will also include broadening its reach through digital and selected premium retail channels.
Elemis will continue to invest in its core product range and accelerate product innovation, building on the success of its hero Pro-Collagen franchise.
Reinold Geiger, Chairman and CEO of L’Occitane Group, added: “Elemis has played a special role in the history of our group.
“As our first major acquisition, it marked an important step in our evolution as a true multi-brand group.
“I am grateful for everything they have contributed and proud of the growth created together.
“This transaction reflects a disciplined portfolio decision, focused on creating long-term value for the group.”
Under L’Occitane Group’s ownership, Elemis is said to have nearly doubled net sales to more than US$300m in FY2026, while strengthening its brand equity and global commercial partnerships.
The business has been heavily investing in its US presence since 2015, where its business now accounts for approximately 50% of net sales following several years of double-digit annual growth.
The brand also generates an estimated half of its sales online, across its own direct-to-consumer (D2C) platform and leading digital partners.
Elemis was founded in London in 1989 by entrepreneur and investor Linda Steiner, alongside co-founders Noella Gabriel, Sean Harrington and Oriele Frank.
Gabriel, CEO and co-founder of Elemis, continued: “Over the past seven years, with the support of L’Occitane Group, we have strengthened and grown the Elemis business, built a compelling product proposition, and created a truly differentiated customer and retail experience.
“We look forward to building on this progress, bringing our exceptional skin care products to even more people while staying true to our brand, heritage and values.
“We are grateful to L’Occitane Group for its support and excited to take Elemis into its next phase of growth in partnership with PAI Partners.”
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