Unilever to buy Carver Korea for US$2.7b
Unilever has agreed to buy fast growing cosmetics company Carver Korea for 2.3 billion euros (US$2.7 billion) to strengthen its personal care position in North Asia.
“Carver will significantly strengthen our position in North Asia, the largest skincare market in the world, and will also complement our existing portfolio, enabling us to offer luxury skincare products at attainable prices,” said Alan Jope, Unilever president for personal care.
The deal is subject to customary regulatory approvals, according to a joint statement yesterday.
Carver Korea’s AHC has grown into a leading brand in South Korea since its establishment in 1999.
Jope said the ever-popular AHC with its innovative and premium products “offers great opportunities for growth.”
In 2016, Carver Korea’s sales totaled 321 million euros.
Market research firm Mintel estimates South Korea’s beauty market is valued at US$13 billion in 2017.