Core Viewpoint - Kering SA is in negotiations to sell its beauty business to L'Oréal SA for approximately €4 billion ($4.7 billion), marking a strategic move by new CEO Luca de Meo to address challenges facing the luxury brand [1][2]. Group 1: Company Actions and Leadership Changes - The potential sale of Kering's beauty division would be the first major strategic decision under CEO Luca de Meo, who recently took over from Francois-Henri Pinault [2]. - Kering's beauty division was launched in 2023, following the acquisition of cologne maker Creed for an estimated €3.5 billion, aimed at enhancing its beauty platform [4]. - The previous CEO, Francois-Henri Pinault, announced his resignation after a series of profit warnings, with the Pinault family holding a 42% stake and 59% of voting rights in Kering [3]. Group 2: Market Context and Challenges - The discussions for the sale come amid a slump in Chinese demand and the potential impact of higher US tariffs on Kering's business [2]. - The deal could be announced as early as next week, although there is a possibility that negotiations may not reach a conclusion [1].

Core Insights - L'Oréal USA has appointed Alexis Perakis-Valat as CEO, succeeding David Greenberg, who will take on the newly created role of chairman of L'Oréal USA, effective January 1, 2026 [1][2][3] Leadership Changes - Alexis Perakis-Valat is currently the president of L'Oréal's Consumer Products division, which is the largest within the group, and will be succeeded by Fabrice Megarbane [2] - David Greenberg, who has been with L'Oréal for 32 years, led the division to nearly 12 billion euros in sales, up from around 8 billion euros in 2021 [3][4] Market Strategy - The creation of the chairman role highlights the strategic importance of the U.S. market for L'Oréal's future growth [3] - Greenberg emphasized the need for agility and a culture that feels small despite the company's size, focusing on external relations and public affairs in his new role [5] Consumer Trends - Greenberg noted that consumer confidence has improved throughout 2025, with a need to cater to a diverse range of consumers with varying spending abilities [6][7] - The Consumer Products Division has seen significant growth, particularly in emerging markets, which accounted for 50% of its growth in 2024 [11] Financial Performance - The Consumer Products Division reported a 1.1% rise in sales on a reported basis and a 2.8% increase in like-for-like terms, reaching 8.41 billion euros in the first half of 2025 [15] Innovation and Sustainability - Perakis-Valat has driven innovation within the division, launching key products and enhancing beauty services powered by technology [10] - The division has also made strides in sustainability, redesigning product ranges and launching refill pouches with 60% less plastic [14]