Beiersdorf, the owner of skincare brands such as Nivea and Eucerin, has acquired a majority stake in S-Biomedic, a Belgian life-science company that specialises in the field of skin microbiome research.
Beiersdorf had already invested in S-Biomedic back in 2018 as part of its corporate venture capital activities. The deal will lead to increased collaboration, although the company stated that S-Biomedic will continue to be managed as a standalone entity under its existing microbiome programme. The parties have not disclosed the purchase price.
In the last few years, microbiome research has become a starting point for breakthrough skincare innovations. The microbiome of the skin is a habitat of billions of bacteria and an essential factor for skin health. A lack of balance in the skin microbiome can trigger skin conditions like acne.
S-Biomedic researches the balance of the skin’s microbiome and develops active ingredients for cosmetic products by making use of living skin bacteria.
“As skin care experts, research has been at the heart of what we have been doing for 140 years. Therefore, the acquisition of S-Biomedic is an ideal strategic fit to drive our innovation power even further in line with our C.A.R.E.+ strategy,” said Dr. Gitta Neufang, Senior VP of Research & Development at Beiersdorf.
“Together with the pioneers of S-Biomedic, we are taking skincare to the next level and will foster the development of solutions for unmet consumer needs.”
NAM Implications:
- A complementary fit of expertise and footprint…
- To the potential benefit of both.
- Time for rivals to reassess relative competitive appeal in relevant categories.
