ADA Cosmetics sold to new equity investment company

The deal, which is subject to European regulatory approval, is expected to be finalised in the third quarter of 2014, while not financial details were revealed by any of the parties.

ADA is based in Kehl and is the largest supplier of cosmetics, personal care and accessories to the European hotel industry, while it is also growing its presence in both the Middle Easter and Asia Pacific markets.

The company targets premium, boutique and four and five star hotels and chains, including Relais & Chateau, Steinberger and Mövenpick, and has been posting significant growth in its revenues mainly on the back of these major hotel players.

Looking to strengthening Asian operations​

“Together with Ardian, we now want to strengthen our position in the wider European and Asian markets using our innovative products,”​ said William Könning, CEO of ADA Cosmetics.

“In the medium term, we are considering establishing local production facilities in Asia to serve the markets in that the region.”​

Ardian’s investment is the eight investment as part of a €500m expansion fun, and gives it a minority stake in the business.

Investors help to drive growth at ADA​​

“With its innovative and high quality range, ADA Cosmetics is in a strong position in the European market and has great potential to grow further internationality,”​ said Dirk Wittenben, managing director at Ardian.

Carlyle bought the ADA business back in 2011, and has invested in the company to allow it to expand its existing footprint, as well as broadening its business in developing markets.

Since that 2011 acquisition the company has posted organic revenue growth of 20% to around €53m expected in 2014, and has also increased EBITA by almost 70% in that period.

"Through close collaboration with ADA's talented management team and Carlyle's network, we fostered a number of successful initiatives at the company, which strengthened ADA Cosmetic's position in its core markets and expanded its international presence,”​ said Thorsten Dippel, Director of the advisory team to the Carlyle Europe Technology Partners funds (CETP).