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L'Oréal to Buy Kering Beauty for €4 Billion, Gaining Creed and 50-Year Gucci Rights

Completion is targeted for early 2026 with proceeds earmarked to reduce Kering's €9.5 billion net debt.

Overview

  • The agreement transfers the Creed fragrance house to L'Oréal and grants 50-year exclusive perfume and beauty licences for Gucci, Bottega Veneta and Balenciaga, with closing planned in the first half of 2026.
  • Bloomberg estimates the Gucci licence accounts for about €1.5 billion of the total value, and L'Oréal's Gucci rights would begin after Coty's current licence ends, which analysts say is in 2028.
  • Creed generates roughly €345 million in annual sales, and L'Oréal chief executive Nicolas Hieronimus said the brand could grow to €1 billion in revenue.
  • Kering expects cash proceeds to help deleverage and will receive royalties on the licensed brands, while the partners also plan a 50/50 joint venture focused on brand experiences and services.
  • L'Oréal reported third‑quarter sales of €10.3 billion, up 0.5% reported and 4.2% like‑for‑like, as analysts at Oddo BHF said the transaction cements its leadership in global prestige fragrance.