L’Oréal signals interest in early takeover of Gucci beauty licence - Inspirepreneur Magazine

L’Oréal signals interest in early takeover of Gucci beauty licence

Pooja Malik
Feb 14, 2026 2:23 PM IST
Category News

Synopsis

L’Oréal has confirmed interest in taking over the Gucci beauty licence before its current expiry in 2028. Coty, which holds the licence, said it is open to discussions if financial terms are appropriate. Kering, Gucci’s parent company, has been expanding its internal beauty division to increase control over cosmetics operations. Any early transfer would require agreement and compensation between Coty and Kering. No final deal or timeline has been announced. The Gucci beauty licence remains under Coty’s control while negotiations and strategic reviews continue between the companies involved.

L’Oréal has expressed interest in taking control of the Gucci beauty licence earlier than planned. Coty currently holds the licence until 2028 and is open to discussions under proper financial terms. Kering is expanding its internal beauty operations. No agreement has been finalized, and any transfer would require approval from both companies involved.

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Key Highlights

  • L’Oréal confirmed interest in early transfer of Gucci beauty licence before Coty contract ends.
  • Coty holds Gucci beauty licence until 2028 but is open to negotiated early exit.
  • Kering expanding internal beauty division to gain more control over cosmetics business operations.
  • Any licence transfer requires agreement, compensation, and approval between Coty and Kering.

L'Oréal has expressed interest in taking over the beauty licence for Gucci before its current expiration, as licence holder Coty and Gucci’s parent company Kering continue discussions over the future of the agreement.

The development was first reported by Bloomberg. L’Oréal CEO Nicolas Hieronimus said the company would prefer early access to the Gucci beauty licence if Coty and Kering reach a deal allowing an earlier transfer. Coty currently holds the licence to produce and sell Gucci fragrances and cosmetics until 2028.

Coty CEO Sue Nabi said the company remains open to discussions about ending the licence early, but any change would depend on agreed financial terms and compensation. She confirmed that Coty is willing to consider options, provided the company’s interests are protected under any arrangement.

Kering has been building its own beauty division, Kering Beauté, as part of efforts to expand its presence in cosmetics and fragrances. The group has already taken steps to bring some beauty operations in-house and has indicated that strengthening control over this segment is part of its broader business plans.

The Gucci beauty licence has been an important part of Coty’s portfolio, and any early transfer would require approval and agreement between Coty and Kering. None of the companies involved have announced a final decision or timeline regarding a possible transfer of the licence.

L’Oréal’s interest comes as luxury companies and beauty groups review partnerships and licensing agreements tied to major fashion brands.


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Written by Pooja Malik

Pooja Malik is a business journalist with over six years of experience covering startups, entrepreneurship, and emerging trends. She has previously worked with leading media platforms such as YourStory Media and BW BusinessWorld, where she reported on business, policy, and market developments. Currently, she serves as Editor at The Inspirepreneur Magazine, where she writes and edits stories across business, lifestyle, and travel, with a focus on clarity, accuracy, and reader relevance.