The luxury perfume brands industry in Europe combines artistry with commerce, featuring companies that produce not only fragrances but experiences. This sector includes major cosmetics manufacturers, high-end fashion houses, and niche brands, each offering unique scents to cater to sophisticated consumers. Currently trending towards sustainability and personalization, brands emphasize ingredients and craftsmanship. Moreover, as emerging markets grow, there's a notable shift toward online sales and innovative marketing strategies. Growing interest in clean beauty opens opportunities for sustainability-focused brands in this luxurious fragrance market, indicating a forward-thinking evolution in consumer preferences and expectations.

The investors in this list display varied backgrounds, with venture capital and private equity firms balancing corporate giants. Located across Europe, with hubs in London and Paris, these firms range in size from small entities with a handful of employees to industry leaders with over 10,000 staff. Founded between 1909 and 2015, their engagement during 2024 saw significant deal activity, reflecting a robust interest in the luxury perfume sector. From innovation-stimulating investors like Unilever Ventures to established names like L'Oréal, their involvement shapes the future of this fragrant industry.

Top 18 Luxury Perfume Brands Investors in Europe

1. Lvmh

• Website: lvmh.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 11
• LinkedIn: lvmh

LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE is a leading luxury goods manufacturer and retailer based in Paris, France. Founded in 1987, LVMH operates across various sectors, including fashion, leather goods, wines, spirits, perfumes, cosmetics, watches, and jewelry. The company is known for its exclusive brands that embody craftsmanship and heritage, catering to affluent consumers. In the luxury perfume sector, LVMH has made significant investments, acquiring a 50% stake in Acqua di Parma in 2001 to enhance fragrance development and expand retail presence. In 2017, LVMH acquired a majority stake in Maison Francis Kurkdjian, allowing the brand to grow internationally while retaining its creative leadership. Additionally, LVMH acquired Guerlain in 1994, further solidifying its position in the luxury fragrance market. These strategic acquisitions highlight LVMH's dedication to the perfume industry and its role as a key investor in luxury fragrance brands.

2. Crowdcube

• Website: crowdcube.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: crowdcube-limited

Crowdcube is a London-based crowdfunding platform founded in 2010 that enables businesses to raise capital through equity investments. It connects startups and SMEs with potential investors, facilitating the funding process. The platform promotes diversity and inclusion within its workforce while providing investment management services to its clients. In the context of luxury perfume brands, Crowdcube has successfully facilitated funding for notable transactions such as St Giles Fine Fragrance, which raised $281,089 in July 2022, and Perfino, which raised $95,313 in December 2020. These transactions highlight Crowdcube's active involvement in the luxury perfume sector, showcasing their capability to support and grow businesses within this industry.

3. L'Oréal

• Website: loreal.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1909
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn: lor%c3%a9al

L'Oréal S.A. is a leading cosmetics manufacturer based in Paris, specializing in a wide range of personal care products, including skin care, make-up, hair care, and perfumes. Founded in 1909, L'Oréal has established itself as a major player in the beauty industry, focusing on innovation and sustainability. The company has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its portfolio in the luxury segment, including the acquisition of Yves Saint Laurent, which includes a line of luxury perfumes, and Roger & Gallet, known for its fragrances. Additionally, L'Oréal's acquisition of YSL Beaute Holding included the licensing of Yves Saint Laurent perfumes, further solidifying its presence in the luxury perfume market. These transactions demonstrate L'Oréal's commitment to expanding its influence in the luxury cosmetics and fragrance sectors.

4. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération

• Website: bpifrance.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 198
• LinkedIn: bpifrance-french-tech-acc%c3%a9l%c3%a9ration

Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally by providing a range of services including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. The firm aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation through coaching and partnerships, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in significant transactions within the luxury sector, including a Series A investment of over $11 million in La Bouche Rouge Paris, a luxury cosmetics brand that emphasizes sustainability and high-quality products. This investment highlights Bpifrance's commitment to supporting luxury brands. Additionally, their involvement in the acquisition of Eric Bompard, a French cashmere label, further demonstrates their engagement in the luxury market, although it is not directly related to perfumes. Overall, Bpifrance's activities indicate a strategic interest in the luxury sector, making them a noteworthy player in the luxury perfume brands investment landscape.

5. Unilever Ventures

• Website: unileverventures.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 9
• LinkedIn: unileverventures

Unilever Ventures is a corporate venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2002. The firm specializes in investing in emerging brands and technologies, particularly within the beauty and wellness sectors. They aim to empower entrepreneurs with innovative ideas to build strong consumer brands. Notably, Unilever Ventures has made significant investments in the luxury perfume space, including The 7 Virtues Beauty, a clean fragrance brand that raised funding to expand its operations and global presence. Other relevant transactions include investments in Scentials and ClayCo. Cosmetics, both of which are involved in the beauty and fragrance markets. These investments highlight Unilever Ventures' commitment to supporting brands that align with the luxury and wellness ethos.

6. Bgf

• Website: bgf.co.uk
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 53
• LinkedIn: bgfinvestments

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm based in London, UK, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in companies like Grace Cole, a bodycare products manufacturer, and Arran Aromatics, which focuses on brand development and e-commerce capabilities. These investments highlight BGF's engagement in sectors that overlap with luxury personal care and fragrance, suggesting their potential interest in the luxury perfume industry.

7. Venrex

• Website: venrex.partners
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 11
• LinkedIn: venrex

Venrex is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2002. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in technology-enabled businesses within consumer industries. Venrex provides funding and strategic support to help these businesses grow and succeed in competitive markets. Notably, Venrex has been involved in several transactions within the beauty sector, particularly with Charlotte Tilbury Beauty, where they participated in multiple funding rounds including Seed, Series A, and Series B investments from 2012 to 2017. This involvement highlights their interest in the luxury beauty market, which includes high-end fragrance products. Additionally, Venrex invested in Smythson, a luxury brand known for its leather goods and accessories, further showcasing their engagement with luxury consumer brands.

8. Eurazeo

• Website: eurazeo.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 40
• LinkedIn: eurazeo

Eurazeo is a prominent investment management firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, specializing in private equity, private debt, and real assets. Founded in 1969, Eurazeo has established a significant presence in the investment management landscape, focusing on tailored investment strategies that support business growth and expansion across various sectors. Notably, Eurazeo has made strategic investments in the luxury sector, including a recent acquisition of a minor share in the niche perfume brand Ex Nihilo for €25 million, aimed at enhancing the brand's market presence and digital capabilities. Additionally, Eurazeo has invested in other beauty-related brands such as Pat McGrath Labs, further showcasing its commitment to the luxury and beauty markets. Their diverse portfolio and active engagement in the luxury perfume industry position them as a relevant investor in this space.

9. Frasers Group

• Website: frasers.group
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 20
• LinkedIn: frasers-group

Frasers Group plc is a corporate investor based in London, England, founded in 1982. The company operates various brands in the sports and fashion sectors, including Sports Direct and Jack Wills, and offers a wide range of products such as clothing, footwear, and sporting goods. In recent years, Frasers Group has made significant investments in the luxury sector, including notable transactions such as the acquisition of Matches Fashion for approximately £80 million, which indicates a strategic move into luxury retail. Additionally, Frasers Group has participated in post-IPO equity transactions with luxury brands like Hugo Boss and Mulberry Group, further solidifying its presence in the luxury market. These activities demonstrate Frasers Group's commitment to diversifying its portfolio to include luxury brands, including those in the perfume industry.

10. Unilever

• Website: unilever.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1872
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: unilever

Unilever PLC is a multinational consumer goods company based in London, England, founded in 1872. It offers a diverse range of products, including food, beauty, personal care, and cleaning agents, with a strong commitment to sustainability. Unilever has made significant investments in the beauty and personal care sector, including the acquisition of Tatcha, a luxury skincare brand known for its premium products, for an estimated $500 million in June 2019. Additionally, Unilever acquired Hourglass in June 2017, a brand recognized for its luxury cosmetics. These acquisitions reflect Unilever's strategy to enhance its portfolio with trendy and high-end brands that cater to a luxury consumer base. Furthermore, Unilever's acquisition of Schmidt’s Naturals and funding of Pureplay Skin Sciences Ltd demonstrate its active engagement in the beauty and personal care market, reinforcing its position as a key player in the luxury segment.

11. Richemont

• Website: richemont.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Bellevue, Geneva, Switzerland
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: richemont

Compagnie Financière Richemont S.A., founded in 1988 and based in Bellevue, Geneva, Switzerland, is a leading luxury goods company specializing in high-end jewelry, watches, leather goods, and fashion accessories. With over 10,000 employees, Richemont serves affluent consumers seeking exclusive products that emphasize craftsmanship and heritage. Notable transactions include the acquisition of a 60% interest in Van Cleef & Arpels, a prestigious luxury brand known for its exquisite jewelry, and the acquisition of Buccellati, an Italian high jewelry house recognized for its exceptional craftsmanship. Additionally, Richemont acquired Delvaux, a luxury leather goods brand, further enhancing its portfolio in the luxury sector. These transactions highlight Richemont's strategic focus on high-quality luxury brands, although they have not yet ventured into the luxury perfume market directly.

12. Kering

• Website: kering.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1963
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: kering

Kering is a luxury goods company based in Paris, specializing in fashion, leather goods, jewelry, and beauty products. Founded in 1963, Kering owns prestigious brands such as Gucci, Balenciaga, and Yves Saint Laurent, catering to affluent consumers and businesses in the retail sector. In 2023, Kering made a significant move into the luxury perfume market by acquiring the French fragrance brand Creed for approximately $3.8 billion, marking the establishment of its Kering Beauté division. This acquisition is expected to enhance Kering's portfolio in the beauty sector. Additionally, Kering has invested in the niche fragrance brand Matière Première, acquiring a minority stake, which reflects its strategic focus on expanding its beauty offerings. These transactions highlight Kering's commitment to innovation and sustainability in luxury, enhancing the overall luxury experience for its customers.

13. Puig

• Website: puig.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: L'Hospitalet De Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
• Founded year: 1914
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: puig

Puig is a beauty and fashion company based in L'Hospitalet De Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain, founded in 1914. The company specializes in fragrances, cosmetics, and apparel, operating globally with a diverse range of products under renowned brands such as Carolina Herrera and Jean Paul Gaultier. Puig has made significant strides in the luxury perfume market through strategic acquisitions, including the purchase of Byredo for approximately 1 billion dollars, marking its entry into a modern fragrance house with substantial growth potential. Additionally, Puig acquired Nina Ricci in 1998, further expanding its luxury fragrance portfolio. In 2016, Puig secured the license for Jean Paul Gaultier fragrances from Shiseido for €90 million, and previously, in 2011, it acquired a majority stake in Jean Paul Gaultier, enhancing its influence in the fashion and fragrance sectors. More recently, Puig acquired Charlotte Tilbury Beauty in 2020, showcasing its ongoing investment in beauty and fragrance brands. These transactions highlight Puig's strategic focus on the luxury perfume industry and its commitment to enhancing personal expression and confidence through its offerings.

14. Chanel

• Website: chanel.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1883
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn: chanel

Chanel is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1883, headquartered in London, England. The company specializes in high-end clothing, accessories, and beauty products, including a renowned line of fragrances. Chanel operates through boutiques and an online store, providing a seamless shopping experience for affluent consumers. In recent years, Chanel has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its supply chain and craftsmanship. Notably, they acquired the heritage French glove-makers Causse to preserve artisanal skills, and they have invested in luxury watch brand F.P.Journe to support independent craftsmanship. Additionally, Chanel has secured its leather supply chain through acquisitions of tanneries such as Bodin-Joyeux and Mégisserie Richard, emphasizing their commitment to quality and sustainability in luxury goods. While these transactions are not directly related to perfumes, they reflect Chanel's overarching strategy to maintain high standards across all luxury segments, including their fragrance offerings.

15. 3i Group plc

• Website: 3i.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1945
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: 3i-group-plc

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity firm founded in 1945, specializing in private equity and infrastructure investments. The firm focuses on providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, helping them grow sustainably. With a strong international presence and a diverse portfolio, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Notably, 3i Group has made significant investments in the luxury and beauty sectors, including a 45% stake in Selective Beauty, a distributor of perfumes and cosmetics, for €50 million in 2006. This investment highlights their commitment to the luxury perfume industry. Additionally, their acquisition of Royal Sanders, a toiletries manufacturer, further emphasizes their involvement in personal care products, which often includes luxury fragrances. These transactions demonstrate 3i Group's active role in the luxury perfume market, making them a noteworthy investor in this category.

16. Permira

• Website: permira.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 8
• LinkedIn: permira

Permira is a London-based private equity investment firm founded in 1985, specializing in private equity and credit solutions. The firm partners with management teams and entrepreneurs to drive growth and create long-term value across various sectors, including technology, consumer goods, healthcare, and services. Notably, Permira has made significant investments in the luxury fashion sector, acquiring stakes in renowned brands such as Valentino and Hugo Boss, both of which have established fragrance lines that contribute to their luxury status. In 2020, Permira acquired Golden Goose, a brand known for its luxury sneakers, further demonstrating its commitment to the luxury consumer market. Additionally, their involvement in the acquisition of Star New Generation indicates a continued interest in expanding their portfolio within the luxury sector.

17. Cathay Capital

• Website: cathaycapital.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 10
• LinkedIn: cathay-capital

Cathay Capital is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, founded in 2006. The firm specializes in private equity, venture capital, and healthcare investments, supporting companies in scaling their operations globally and sustainably. Their clientele includes entrepreneurs and management teams across various industries seeking growth and transformation. Notably, Cathay Capital has made significant investments in the luxury and beauty sectors, including Mauboussin, which raised funds in 2010 and is recognized for its luxury jewelry and fragrances. They also led a $31 million Series A funding round for Mistine, a beauty brand, indicating their active role in the beauty market. Their investment in Moncler, a luxury fashion brand, further highlights their engagement with high-end consumer goods. These transactions demonstrate Cathay Capital's capability and interest in the luxury perfume and beauty markets.

18. Ldc

• Website: ldc.co.uk
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 15
• LinkedIn: ldc

Lloyds Development Capital (LDC) is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. As part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. The firm focuses on helping management teams achieve their growth ambitions through investment and advisory services, fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success. Notably, LDC has made significant investments in the beauty and personal care sector, including the acquisition of St Tropez, a luxury tanning brand, in 2006, and an investment in Original Additions, a beauty accessories supplier, in 2011. These transactions highlight LDC's engagement in the beauty industry, which is closely related to luxury perfumes, indicating their capability and interest in this market.

Luxury Perfume Brands Insights: Key Investors in Europe

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
Lvmh	Paris, Île-De-France, France	10001+	1987	11
Crowdcube	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	2010	3
L'Oréal	Paris, Île-De-France, France	10001+	1909	4
Bpifrance French Tech Accélération	Paris, Île-De-France, France	1-10	2015	198
Unilever Ventures	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	11-50	2002	9
Bgf	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	2011	53
Venrex	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	11-50	2002	11
Eurazeo	Paris, Île-De-France, France	201-500	1969	40
Frasers Group	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	10001+	1982	20
Unilever	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	10001+	1872	0
Richemont	Bellevue, Geneva, Switzerland	10001+	1988	1
Kering	Paris, Île-De-France, France	10001+	1963	3
Puig	L'Hospitalet De Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain	1001-5000	1914	1
Chanel	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	10001+	1883	4
3i Group plc	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	201-500	1945	3
Permira	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	501-1000	1985	8
Cathay Capital	Paris, Île-De-France, France	51-200	2006	10
Ldc	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	1981	15

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