The Inkey List, the UK-based challenger brand best known for its single ingredient-led skin, hair and scalp treatments, has announced ‘significant’ minority investment from Aria Growth Partners.
With backing from the New York private equity firm, The Inkey List said it plans to continue its rapid global growth, in partnership with beauty retailer Sephora, and, in doing so, make skin care solutions more accessible to consumers.
Founded in 2018 by Colette Laxton and Mark Curry, The Inkey List has grown nearly 600% in the past three years and is currently available via Sephora stores in more than 30 countries.
“As we enter a seminal phase in our brand development, we felt it was the right time to bring in another external investor to support our huge growth plans for 2022,” said Laxton.
“We believe in the power of strong relationships, and with Aria joining our board alongside Unilever Ventures, we feel we now have a great company formula for future success and growth.”
Founders Mark Curry and Colette Laxton
“We are thrilled to partner with Mark, Colette and their outstanding team at The Inkey List,” added Trevor Nelson, Founder & Managing Partner at Aria Growth Partners.
“With ingredient-led, highly effective products and a deep commitment to empowering consumers with both knowledge and accessible prices, we believe The Inkey List is the future of skin care. We’re excited to help them continue their unprecedented growth.”
March 2022 will also see The Inkey List grow its ‘human-led’ customer service approach with the debut of the ‘we are Inkey’ positioning campaign, and double down on its consumer education drive, supported by external dermatologists and trichologists.
Since its launch on a £40,000 budget, the 'skin care made simple' brand has received support from Unilever Ventures, Sephora, Selfridges, Feelunique, Look Fantastic, Cult Beauty and Boots.
