Isabelle Parize, CEO of Douglas

German headquartered beauty retailer Douglas has taken a significant step to further expand its strong position internationally. The Group has announced to have reached an agreement for the acquisition of two leading Italian beauty and perfumery chains - Limoni and La Gardenia, together trading as Leading Luxury Group (LLG) - from a group of investors led by private equity firm Orlando Italy Management.

Limoni and La Gardenia joined forces in 2013 and form one of the leading beauty and perfumery retailers in Italy. With approximately 500 stores across all regions, they form the most extensive beauty and perfumery network in Italy. Douglas, which already runs 126 stores in the country, thus becomes the leading player in the Italian beauty retail sector.

Following our recent acquisition of Bodybell in Spain, we are now strengthening our business in yet another core market in Europe. By integrating LLG into our pan-European store network, Douglas will now become a leading player in the Italian beauty sector. This transaction is a major step on our journey to becoming the No. 1 or strong No. 2 in every market we serve”, said Isabelle Parize, CEO of Douglas. “Amongst others Douglas will contribute its own products from its successful ‘Douglas Collection’ range as well as considerable online expertise,” she added.

Post-transaction, Douglas will operate more than 2,000 perfumeries (from 1,700 stores to date) across 19 countries in Europe, from Portugal to Latvia, combined with a network of online shops.

Post-transaction, Douglas will operate more than 2,000 perfumeries across 19 countries in Europe.

The transaction, the financial details of which have not been disclosed, is subject to customary conditions including merger control approval.

At the beginning of 2016, the Group has announced an investment program of more than EUR 100 million with the aim to broaden its international footprint, but also to enhance the Douglas brand and boost omni-channel capabilities.