Unilever to acquire 75% stake in Italian personal care and wellbeing brand

Unilever has entered an agreement to acquire a 75% stake in Italian personal care and wellbeing brand, Equilibra.

Established in 1987, Equilibra offers a range of skincare and haircare products, as well as nutritional supplements in Italy.

The company’s brands are made using plant-based ingredients such as aloe, karite, argan and almond.

Unilever beauty and personal care president Alan Jope said: “Equilibra is very well-positioned in the personal care and 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.”

Following the transaction, Unilever plans to operate Equilibra as a standalone business alongside continuing its current management team.

Equilibra CEO Marco Bianco will continue in his position and lead the business while founder Franco Bianco will act as honorary chairman.

Franco said: “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.”

The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. The details of the transaction have not been disclosed.