Esselle, a retail group based in Lancashire, has acquired Agden Consulting Limited, trading as Facetheory, in a transaction that saw the skincare brand enter pre-pack administration. This acquisition, which includes the transfer of 28 employees and the Regent Street retail store, strengthens Esselle’s presence in the consumer goods market.
Facetheory, founded in 2013, has built a loyal customer base with its sustainable skincare products. The brand holds certifications such as B Corp and PETA, reflecting its commitment to eco-conscious practices. However, the company faced financial difficulties, reporting a loss of £1.1 million for the year ending April 2024, despite a turnover of £13.7 million. The challenges were compounded by a disruptive rebranding and the recent departure of founder Jamie Shuker.
The acquisition aligns with Esselle’s growing portfolio. Esselle, launched in 2023, initially acquired Arthouse, a home furnishings business, for £1.5 million. Esselle, owned by retail entrepreneur Suraj Lalvani, plans to expand Facetheory’s reach in the clean beauty sector, assuring customers that there will be no disruption in fulfilling current or future orders.
The deal signals Esselle’s commitment to scaling Facetheory’s innovative skincare products and building deeper customer relationships in the growing clean beauty market.
