Unilever has recently announced it will acquire 75 percent of Italian personal care and wellbeing company, Equilibra.
Founded in 1987 by Franco Bianco, Equilibra has continuously grown in the natural personal care sector, offering natural Skin Care and Hair Care ranges and is a leading player in nutritional supplements in Italy. The company has a affluent product offering based on its authentic Italian credentials; using plant-based ingredients with functional benefits, such as Aloe, Karite’, Argan and Almond.
Alan Jope, Unilever President Beauty & Personal Care, said: “Equilibra is very well-positioned in the wellbeing space in Italy and complements perfectly our existing offering. The Equilibra brand enjoys great recognition in the market, and we see opportunities for further development in what is a fast-growing segment.”
Franco Bianco, Founder of Equilibra, stated: “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.”
Fulvio Guarneri, General Manager Unilever Italy added: “Unilever has a successful track record of scaling partnerships with quintessential Italian brands on a national and European level. Unilever and Equilibra will leverage their complementary expertise to grow the Equilibra business, bringing sustainability, wellness and the Italian spirit to people in Italy and abroad.”
Equilibra will maintain its position as an independent business with the continued presence of the Bianco Family and the current management team. Marco Bianco will be leading the business as CEO from its headquarter in Turin, and Franco Bianco will be Honorary Chairman.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed. The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.