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.

The UK and Germany have cemented their commitment to closer collaboration with the signing of the Kensington Treaty. This agreement, the first of its kind since World War II, aims to enhance cooperation in trade, defence, security, and various bilateral exchanges.

At a ceremony held at London’s V&A Museum, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz formalised the treaty, which includes provisions for joint efforts in reinforcing Euro-Atlantic security. Both leaders have committed to further strengthening their defence forces to effectively deter potential threats. The treaty also reiterates support for NATO and its allies.

A key part of the agreement is the facilitation of passport e-gates for UK citizens arriving in Germany, set to roll out by the end of August, initially for frequent travellers. The nations have also agreed to explore the potential for direct train services, with hopes of launching them within the next decade.

Additionally, the treaty highlights the importance of bilateral school and youth exchanges, aims to combat cross-border crime, and outlines joint work on security issues such as arms control, counter-terrorism, and space security.

This treaty signals a renewed focus on addressing global challenges such as people smuggling, with both nations committed to tackling organised crime, including migrant smuggling. This agreement is part of broader efforts to strengthen UK-Germany relations and address pressing issues across Europe.