Tarte Cosmetics bought by Japan's Kosé

By

Sarah Ahssen

Published
Mar 18, 2014

Japan's Kosé Corporation has just bought a 93.5% stake in American beauty brand Tarte Cosmetics in a deal valued at 135 million dollars. Mainly active in the Japanese market, Kosé counts brands such as Awake and Sekkisei in its portofolio. It also holds licenses for Jill Stuart and Paul Stuart. This deal is give the company its first foothold in the North American market.

Tarte Cosmetics is one of the fastest growing beauty brands in the United States, with annual growth estimated at 30%. Founded in 1999, the brand is sold in Sephora, Ulta and Macy's.
Kosé has reportedly bought Encore Consumer Capital’s stake in the company, as well as the majority of founder Maureen Kelly's shares. Kose said Tarte's existing management will remain in place.