The cosmetic and beauty product stores industry in DACH focuses on retailing beauty items and personal care products. This industry includes companies ranging from niche brands to large multinational corporates, offering skincare, cosmetics, hair care, and wellness solutions. The growing consumer demand for organic and sustainable products is driving innovation, with an emphasis on ethical sourcing and eco-friendly packaging. Digitally native brands are reshaping retail with eCommerce strategies, enhancing accessibility for urban and rural markets. As personalized beauty becomes increasingly popular, businesses are leveraging data to create unique shopping experiences, positioning themselves for continued growth in a fast-evolving market.


Investors in the DACH region's cosmetic and beauty product stores include venture capital firms, corporate investors, and private equity entities. Each investor varies in size and focus but collectively displays a robust interest in the industry’s innovation. Headquartered in key cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt, these firms were established from the late 1990s to the early 2000s. Understanding not only funding strategies but also deal frequencies, many investors executed multiple transactions in 2024, highlighting their commitment to the evolving beauty sector. This collection of investors illustrates a strong network fuelling growth in beauty and wellness markets across DACH.


Top 16 Cosmetic and Beauty Product Stores Investors in DACH


1. Rocket Internet SE


Rocket Internet SE is a venture builder based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 2007. The firm specializes in incubating and investing in internet and technology companies globally, providing operational support and capital to entrepreneurs. While they focus on various sectors, including eCommerce, PropTech, and FinTech, they have made notable investments in the beauty industry. For instance, Rocket Internet SE invested in GLOSSYBOX, a beauty subscription service, raising significant funds in multiple rounds, including $72 million in 2011 and $62.6 million in 2015. Additionally, they invested in Vaniday, a beauty and wellness startup that secured €15 million in funding, which operates across several countries and offers CRM and online-booking tools for salons. These transactions highlight Rocket Internet's active role in the beauty sector, complementing their broader investment strategy.


2. HV Capital

  • Website: hvcapital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
  • Founded year: 2000
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 28
  • LinkedIn: hvventures

HV Capital is a venture capital firm based in Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, founded in 2000. With over €2.8 billion under management, HV Capital specializes in investing in digital companies and supporting entrepreneurs from seed stage to exit. The firm has been involved in several notable transactions in the beauty sector, including significant investments in GLOSSYBOX, which raised approximately $62.6 million in 2015 and $72 million in 2011, and Vaniday, a beauty and wellness startup that secured €15 million in funding. These investments highlight HV Capital's commitment to the beauty industry, alongside their broader focus on digital and innovative companies across Europe.


3. Nestlé

  • Website: nestle.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Vevey, Vaud, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1866
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: nestle-s-a-

Nestlé S.A. is a multinational food and beverage company founded in 1866, headquartered in Vevey, Vaud, Switzerland. With over 10,000 employees, Nestlé offers a diverse range of products including coffee, dairy, and pet care items, while also venturing into health and wellness sectors. Notably, Nestlé acquired Galderma in November 2014, a company known for its dermatological products, which positions them within the cosmetic and beauty industry. In 2024, Nestlé participated in a funding round for Timeline, a Swiss biotech startup focused on longevity, further indicating their interest in sectors that intersect with beauty and wellness. Additionally, their acquisition of Solgar Italia Multinutrient, a distributor of health products, showcases their commitment to enhancing their portfolio in health-related areas, which often correlate with beauty products. Overall, Nestlé's strategic acquisitions and investments reflect a growing interest in the cosmetic and beauty product markets.


4. TA Ventures

  • Website: taventures.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: ta-ventures

TA Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in early-stage technology startups across various sectors, including HealthTech and FinTech, providing capital and strategic support to help startups grow in competitive markets. Notably, TA Ventures has invested in several companies within the cosmetic and beauty product stores sector, including Flaconi, an online beauty retailer that raised funds in 2012, and Abiby and Dae Hair, which raised significant amounts in seed rounds in 2021. These transactions highlight TA Ventures' active role in the beauty industry, alongside their broader investment strategy.


5. SevenVentures

  • Website: sevenventures.de
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: 10262962

SevenVentures is a corporate investment firm based in Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in media investments and partnerships with consumer-oriented startups, providing media-for-equity and media-for-revenue investments. This approach helps businesses enhance their brand visibility through tailored advertising strategies. Notably, SevenVentures has invested in several companies in the beauty sector, including Flaconi, a prominent online beauty retailer, and BeautyLove, which raised funds in a seed round in 2023. Additionally, they have invested in MyParfum, a company focused on personalized fragrances. These transactions highlight SevenVentures' active role in the cosmetic and beauty product industry, making them a relevant investor in this space.


6. Acton Capital


Acton Capital is a Munich-based venture capital firm founded in 1999, specializing in investing in startups at the Series A stage and beyond. With a focus on mission-driven teams, Acton Capital provides financial backing and strategic guidance across various sectors, including technology and eco-friendly consumer goods. In recent years, they have made notable investments in the cosmetic and beauty product industry, such as their involvement with ECO Group, which raised €7.5 million to expand its B2B platform for eco-friendly products and acquired a majority stake in the natural cosmetics brand BEN&ANNA. Additionally, they participated in funding for The Female Company, a startup focused on FemCare products, further highlighting their commitment to the beauty sector. Acton Capital's diverse portfolio and strategic approach position them as a significant player in the venture capital landscape, particularly in the beauty and personal care market.


7. Brenntag

  • Website: brenntag.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Founded year: 1874
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: brenntag

Brenntag SE is a chemical distributor based in Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, founded in 1874. The company connects chemical manufacturers and users, providing a wide range of specialty and industrial chemicals, along with value-added services. Brenntag serves approximately 195,000 customers across various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and oil & gas, simplifying access to complex supply chains. Notably, Brenntag has made significant strides in the personal care sector, highlighted by its acquisition of Shanghai Saifu Chemical Development, which enhances its presence in the Asian personal care market. This move aligns with their strategy to expand in the cosmetic and beauty product sector. Additionally, their recent acquisitions in the Life Science market, such as PIC Química and PharmaSpecial, further demonstrate their commitment to sectors that intersect with personal care and cosmetics.


8. Henkel

  • Website: henkel.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Düsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Founded year: 1876
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: henkel

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, founded in 1876 and based in Düsseldorf, Germany, is a prominent chemical manufacturer and consumer goods company. While it specializes in adhesive technologies and home care products, it has made significant strides in the cosmetic and beauty product industry through strategic acquisitions. In 2022, Henkel acquired Shiseido, a well-known name in cosmetics, further solidifying its presence in the beauty market. Additionally, in 2020, Henkel acquired HelloBody and Banana Beauty, both of which are recognized brands in the beauty sector. Furthermore, Henkel acquired a 75% stake in Invincible Brands, which includes HelloBody, Banana Beauty, and Mermaid + Me. These acquisitions reflect Henkel's commitment to expanding its portfolio in the beauty and cosmetics space, emphasizing innovation and sustainability in its operations.


9. b2venture

  • Website: b2venture.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2000
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 15
  • LinkedIn: btovpartners

b2venture is a venture capital firm based in St. Gallen, Switzerland, founded in 2000. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in innovative startups across various sectors, including the cosmetic and beauty product industry. Notable transactions include their investment in Flaconi, a prominent online beauty retailer, and gitti, a startup focused on sustainable nail polish. These investments highlight b2venture's commitment to supporting entrepreneurs in the beauty sector, alongside their broader strategy of collaborating with a community of angel investors to enhance their investment approach. With 15 investments in 2024 alone, b2venture is a key player in the European venture capital landscape, actively seeking opportunities in the beauty and cosmetics market.


10. Givaudan

  • Website: givaudan.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1895
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: givaudan

Givaudan, founded in 1895 and based in Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland, is a leading manufacturer specializing in flavors, fragrances, and active cosmetic ingredients. With over 10,000 employees, Givaudan provides innovative sensory solutions to various industries, including food and beverage, personal care, and household goods. In recent years, Givaudan has made significant strides in the cosmetic and beauty product sector through strategic acquisitions and investments. Notable transactions include the acquisition of a 25% stake in b.kolor, an Italian make-up and skincare company, which allows Givaudan to potentially increase its stake in the future. They also acquired Drom Fragrances and Expressions Parfumees SAS, enhancing their fragrance capabilities. Furthermore, Givaudan participated in a $78 million Series A funding round for Arcaea, a company focused on developing new beauty products through innovative technologies. These activities underscore Givaudan's commitment to expanding its footprint in the beauty industry and providing cutting-edge solutions to personal care brands.


11. Beiersdorf

  • Website: beiersdorf.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
  • Founded year: 1882
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: beiersdorf

Beiersdorf AG, founded in 1882 and headquartered in Hamburg, Germany, is a leading personal care manufacturer known for its innovative skin care products and trusted brands such as NIVEA and Eucerin. The company operates globally, emphasizing sustainability and innovation in its product development. Beiersdorf has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its portfolio in the cosmetic and beauty product sector, including the acquisition of Chantecaille in December 2021, La Prairie Group in September 1991, and Coppertone in May 2019 for $550 million. In February 2023, they also acquired the natural cosmetics brand 'Stop The Water While Using Me!' to further their commitment to sustainable skincare. These transactions demonstrate Beiersdorf's active role in the beauty industry and its dedication to expanding its influence in the market.


12. Symrise AG

  • Website: symrise.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Holzminden, Lower Saxony, Germany
  • Founded year: 1874
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: symrise

Symrise AG is a leading chemicals company based in Holzminden, Lower Saxony, Germany, founded in 1874. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, the company specializes in producing flavors and fragrances that cater to various industries, including food and beverage, cosmetics, and pet food. Symrise AG has made notable investments in the cosmetics sector, including leading a $6 million Series A funding round for Phlur, a fragrance brand, which marked their first investment in this area. They also participated in the Series A funding for Sunday II Sunday, a textured hair-care brand, showcasing their interest in innovative beauty products. Furthermore, their acquisition of Citratus Fragrâncias and the planned acquisition of SFA Romani and Neroli Invest DL highlight their strategic efforts to enhance their market position in the fragrance segment of the cosmetics industry. Through these transactions, Symrise AG demonstrates a strong commitment to the beauty and cosmetics market, making them a relevant investor in this space.


13. Vorwerk Ventures


Vorwerk Ventures is a venture capital fund based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 2007. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage startups across various sectors, including consumer products, food, health, and climate. Vorwerk Ventures provides seed and Series A funding, along with follow-on investments, to support innovative companies that aim to create a positive impact. Notably, they have invested in beauty and wellness startups such as Vaniday, which offers CRM and online-booking tools for salons, and FORMEL Skin, a digital platform for remote skin care. These transactions highlight Vorwerk Ventures' active role in the cosmetic and beauty product industry, showcasing their interest in supporting businesses that enhance consumer experiences in this sector.


14. Bitburger Ventures


Bitburger Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Bitburg, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, founded in 2018. The firm invests in mission-driven founders and supports them in reshaping their industries by providing financial capital, access to networks, and expertise for sustainable growth. Their investment portfolio includes a variety of sectors, such as food, health, and technology. Notably, they participated in the Series A funding round for O.C. Hairsystems, a Düsseldorf-based startup focused on hair care, raising 5 million euros to expand its growth in Europe. This investment highlights their involvement in the beauty sector. Additionally, they have invested in companies like Waterdrop, an Austrian beverage brand, and Share, indicating a diverse investment strategy beyond cosmetics.


15. Sgs

  • Website: sgs.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1878
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: sgs

SGS S.A., founded in 1878 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, is a leading testing, inspection, and certification company with a global presence. The firm provides independent services to ensure product quality and compliance across various industries. In recent years, SGS has made significant strides in the cosmetics and personal care sector through strategic acquisitions. Notably, in July 2022, SGS acquired proderm GmbH, a leader in advanced clinical testing solutions for cosmetics, which bolstered its market presence. Additionally, in July 2024, SGS announced the acquisition of the Institut d’Expertise Clinique, further solidifying its position in the cosmetics industry. Another key acquisition was SIT Skin Investigation and Technology Hamburg GmbH, specializing in dermatological research for cosmetics, acquired in February 2018. These transactions highlight SGS's commitment to enhancing its services and expertise in the cosmetic and beauty product markets.


16. Burda Principal Investments


Burda Principal Investments is a Munich-based venture capital firm founded in 2016, specializing in growth-stage investments in digital technology and media companies. With a focus on providing long-term growth equity, they support entrepreneurs in overcoming financial barriers to expansion. Their portfolio includes a variety of successful internet-centric businesses across Europe, the U.S., and Asia. Notably, they have invested in The Female Company, a German FemCare startup, which highlights their engagement in the beauty and personal care sector. Additionally, they participated in funding rounds for other companies like Miinto, which operates in the fashion space, indicating a broader interest in consumer-oriented businesses. Their investment in Arive, a startup with a diverse product offering, further demonstrates their capability to engage with companies that may intersect with the beauty and cosmetics industry.



Cosmetic and Beauty Product Stores Insights: Key Investors in DACH


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Rocket Internet SEBerlin, Berlin, Germany201-50020070
HV CapitalFlensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany11-50200028
NestléVevey, Vaud, Switzerland10001+18662
TA VenturesFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany11-5020105
SevenVenturesFlensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany11-5020093
Acton CapitalMunich, Bavaria, Germany11-5019993
BrenntagEssen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany10001+18748
HenkelDüsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany10001+18763
b2ventureSt. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland11-50200015
GivaudanVernier, Geneva, Switzerland10001+18950
BeiersdorfHamburg, Hamburg, Germany10001+18821
Symrise AGHolzminden, Lower Saxony, Germany10001+18742
Vorwerk VenturesBerlin, Berlin, Germany11-5020077
Bitburger VenturesBitburg, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany1-1020180
SgsGeneva, Geneva, Switzerland10001+18785
Burda Principal InvestmentsMunich, Bavaria, Germany11-5020165


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