Berkshire Partners and Rhône to Invest in Coty Inc

Berkshire Partners LLC, the Boston-based private equity firm, and Rhône, a private equity firm with offices in New York and London, announced they have made minority equity investments in Coty Inc., a leading global beauty company. Each of the investors will be represented on the companys Board of Directors. Terms of the transactions were not disclosed.

Coty announced several strategic acquisitions in late 2010, including OPI, a preeminent provider of nail care products; philosophy, Inc., a premier skin care and cosmetics company; TJoy, a leading Chinese skin care company; and Dr. Scheller Cosmetics AG, manufacturer of some of Germanys most popular makeup and skin care brands. “With these additions, Coty continues to strengthen its unparalleled brand portfolios in fragrance, color cosmetics and skin care around the globe,” the company stated.

Rhône Managing Director M. Steven Langman commented, "Coty is an established leader in the global fragrance, beauty and skincare industry, with an impressive collection and diversity of consumer brands. Rhône is excited to be partnering with Coty, its management team and its shareholders in this transaction and to support Coty in the realization of its strategic plans."
Berkshire Managing Director Brad Bloom commented, "We are impressed by Cotys rich heritage, unique culture, and the deep connections its brands have with consumers. We look forward to supporting Coty in this exciting chapter of the companys growth."

"This mutually beneficial agreement allows Coty to continue its accelerated growth path organically and externally around the globe," said Bernd Beetz, CEO, Coty Inc. "By bringing these partners on board, Coty will be in a stronger position to prepare for future and larger acquisitions while maintaining the culture that makes Coty such a unique place in the beauty industry."

About Coty Inc.

Francois Coty who is credited with founding the modern fragrance industry created Coty in Paris in 1904.
Today, Coty Inc. is a recognized leader in global beauty with annual net sales of nearly $4 billion. Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, passion, innovation and creativity, Coty Inc. has developed an unrivalled portfolio of notable brands and delivers its innovative products to consumers in 90 markets worldwide.