Kao Corporation, Japan’s leading beauty and personal care company, acquired Molton Brown, the modern British luxury goods brand focused on bath & body, skin and hair care for £170 million.

Molton Brown’s products are distributed in over 70 countries, with an especially strong department store presence. The acquisition benefits both parties, as Kao gains increased access to the global health and beauty market with a specific focus on Europe and the Americas, and Molton Brown benefits from the anticipated application of Kao’s advanced skin and hair care technologies. Following Kao’s 2003 large acquisition of skincare maker Kanebo, the acquisition of Molton Brown further establishes Kao as a major player in the beauty market. Previously, Molton Brown was wholly owned by private equity firm Bridgepoint.

Dyens & Co. advised Molton Brown in this transaction.