Bondi Sands owner Kao set to double Consumer Care Business in EMEA by 2030

Japanese cosmetics company Kao Corporation, the owner of Molton Brown, John Frieda, Curél and Bioré, is set to double its Consumer Care Business in EMEA by 2030.

It follows Kao’s acquisition of Bondi Sands in 2023, which now sees the company have a real focus on skincare as "one of the key growth drivers in its mid-term management plan".

The move means Kao will offer solutions to heal and protect skin from external environmental factors, while also establishing a "firm global presence" in the suncream and self-tanning markets.

Alongside the robust distribution expansion of Bondi Sands across EMEA - coupled with "strong further growth" in the UK - the company is poised to further boost its business for Bioré, particularly Bioré UV, and therapeutic skincare brand Curél.

It is also exploring new brands that align with its strategic direction, ‘Win in Skin’, specifically targeting categories in skin protection, skin healing and environmental protection, reinforcing its commitment to skincare excellence and the category's growth.

Additionally, after successfully leading the Kao UK Consumer Care Business as Country General Manager, Wendy Brown has been promoted into the newly established role of Senior Director, Skincare Strategy & Revenue Growth Management, Consumer Care, EMEA, bringing her strategic expertise and commercial acumen to the company's regional business.

A dedicated team under her leadership has been assigned to develop the company's skincare and revenue growth in EMEA, in line with its ‘Global Sharp Top’ business strategy.

Kao is also "actively engaged" in incorporating the Bondi Sands operations into its EMEA Consumer Care Business organisation in the UK, forming one joint organisation.

The newly created integrated Kao UK Consumer Care Business will be led by Karen King as General Manager. King, who headed the Bondi Sands UK and EMEA business, brings over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry to the new role and will focus on driving continuous growth.

Michael Cramer, Vice President Consumer Care Business for Kao Corporation in EMEA, said: "As we shape our new organisational framework, it is crucial that we harness the collective expertise and talent within both organisations, while maintaining robust partnerships with our retailers."