Auréa Group, the new owner of The Body Shop, has invested in premium hair care brands Zenagen and ACT/IV.
The private equity firm has invested an undisclosed sum into Nutraceutical Research Innovations (NRI), which is the US-based holding company for the two professional hair care lines.
The move is part of Auréa’s strategy to boost its portfolio of beauty and personal care brands, following its acquisition of British retail chain The Body Shop last year.
It also marks Auréa’s second investment in hair care, alongside hair growth brand Scandinavian Biolabs.
“Zenagen and ACT/IV are outstanding brands that deliver proven, effective solutions for their customers,” said Paul Raphael (pictured right), Auréa’s co-founding partner.
“With increasing consumer demand for premium, purpose-driven haircare products, NRI is exceptionally well positioned to thrive.
“We look forward to bringing Auréa’s operational experience and unparalleled network in working with the team to unlock the brands’ next phase of growth.”
Zenagen, founded in 2008, is a professional hair care brand that offers plant-based products designed to treat fine and thinning hair.
It is stocked by salons, spas, dermatology clinics and aesthetic therapists.
Auréa is aiming to strengthen Zenagen’s presence in the professional market, while expanding into direct-to-consumer platforms such as Amazon.
ACT/IV, founded in 2016, is a lifestyle hair care brand with a strong foothold in professional beauty channels, including nationwide distribution.
Auréa will prioritise ACT/IV’s digital growth and explore opportunities for further retail expansion.
A spokesperson for NRI said in a statement: “We chose Auréa Group as our partner because of their unmatched combination of industry expertise and capabilities – from scaling digital engagement and e-commerce to optimising global operations.”
Auréa was founded by Paul Raphael, the former Vice Chairman of UBS, and Mike Jatania, former CEO of Lornamead.