Private equity firm L Catterton, created by LVMH, Groupe Arnault and Catterton, has acquired a minority stake in French perfume house Ex Nihilo.
This follows a two-year partnership under asset manager Eurazeo, which is selling its entire stake in Ex Nihilo.
The deal is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026.
Through its initial investment, Eurazeo supported the company’s international growth in existing markets and new geographies.
Eurazeo also backed key initiatives in the organisation, enabling Ex Nihilo to scale rapidly and further strengthen its market positioning, alongside improved profitability.
“The last two years alongside Eurazeo have enabled Ex Nihilo to structure itself and accelerate its growth, both in France and internationally,” said Sylvie Loday, Olivier Royère and Benoît Verdier, co-founders of Ex Nihilo.
“Thanks to this support and a solid partnership, we have strengthened our organisation and continued our expansion into new markets.
“We are now entering a new phase of development, with the same desire to preserve the creative DNA that is the essence of our company, making it a global leader in its category.”
Loday, Royère and Verdier founded Ex Nihilo in Paris, France, in 2013, built on the principles of “creative freedom and exceptional savoir-faire”.
The maison offers collectable pieces, but also personalisation services allowing customers to customise existing fragrances.
The brand’s hero fragrances include Fleur Narcotique and Blue Talisman.
Pierre Meignen, Head of Elevate at Eurazeo, and Laurent Droin, Senior Advisor to Eurazeo, added: “This successful exit, only two years after we invested in Ex Nihilo, highlights once again the strengths of Eurazeo’s strategy consisting of supporting ambitious and responsible companies.
“And its ability to build attractive corporate champions, while creating long-term value for its clients and shareholders.
“It was a real pleasure to work alongside Ex Nihilo’s teams and take on many exciting and rewarding challenges.
“We now pass the torch to L Catterton, which we are confident will help bring Ex Nihilo to the next development stage.”
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