USA. The Estée Lauder Companies has acquired Paris-based prestige fragrance brand By Kilian. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Founded in 2007 by Kilian Hennessy, By Kilian is sold in more than 40 countries worldwide, primarily in North America, Europe and the Middle East, through freestanding stores, select prestige department stores and perfumeries. According to the brand, it offers an exclusive “wardrobe” of scents that reflect Mr. Hennessy’s deep-rooted legacy of luxury and creativity.
By Kilian products include fragrances, candles and other accessories, as well as exclusive collections available in selected regions. Elements of the brand’s packaging such as perfume bottles and candle holders are designed to be kept as keepsakes, said to reflect Kilian’s philosophy that true luxury should not be disposable.
The Estée Lauder Companies President and Chief Executive Officer Fabrizio Freda said: “By Kilian is a perfect complement to our portfolio of prestige fragrances. Kilian has built a beautiful and sumptuous brand that elevates the art of perfume creation with elegance and uncompromising luxury. This acquisition gives our company a strategic opportunity to continue to build upon our leadership in ultra-luxury fragrances. We are very excited to work closely with Kilian and the entire By Kilian team to continue building on the brand’s terrific success.”
By Kilian Founder and CEO Kilian Hennessy commented: “I could not imagine a better home for my brand. The Estée Lauder Companies not only understands the philosophy behind By Kilian – which is to bring perfumery back to the level of luxury that it enjoyed in the early 20th century – but also has the resources and support to help By Kilian continue to strategically grow by category, region and distribution. The company has an incredible track record of nurturing entrepreneurial brands, and I’m thrilled to be partnering with them.”
The Estée Lauder Companies Executive Chairman William P. Lauder added: “Kilian’s heritage of sophistication and luxury is a terrific match for The Estée Lauder Companies. One of our leading strengths is the ability to identify brands with unique positioning and nurture them to realise their full growth potential. We are so pleased to partner with Kilian to continue this legacy, and we welcome him and his team to our family.”
The Estée Lauder Companies Executive Group President John Demsey will add By Kilian to his portfolio, while continuing to oversee Clinique, MAC Cosmetics, Tom Ford Beauty, Prescriptives, Bobbi Brown, Jo Malone London, Smashbox, Aramis & Designer Fragrances, the Men’s Skincare Group, Rodin olio lusso, Le Labo, Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle and GlamGlow.