Ownership Changes in the Beauty and Packaging Industries

The beauty and packaging industries have experienced significant ownership shifts in recent years, with major acquisitions reshaping market dynamics. From Berry Global's new ownership to P&G's acquisition of Mielle Organics, these changes reflect broader industry consolidation trends. Understanding who owns what has become increasingly important for industry stakeholders, investors, and consumers alike.

Berry Global Acquisition: New Ownership Structure

Berry Global, one of the world's largest packaging manufacturers, has undergone significant ownership changes. In 2023, Apollo Global Management acquired Berry Global in a deal valued at approximately $4.3 billion. This acquisition represented one of the largest private equity deals in the packaging sector, giving Apollo control over Berry's extensive portfolio of rigid and flexible packaging solutions.

Prior to this acquisition, Berry Global had been publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) since 2012. The company had grown substantially through its own acquisitions, including the purchase of RPC Group in 2019 for $6.5 billion, which significantly expanded its European presence.

Similar to how companies like Kraft Heinz underwent ownership changes, Berry Global's acquisition reflects the ongoing consolidation in manufacturing sectors where scale and global reach are competitive advantages.

Mielle Organics Ownership: P&G's Strategic Acquisition

Who Owns Mielle Hair Products?

Mielle Organics, a popular Black-owned hair care brand, was acquired by Procter & Gamble (P&G) in early 2023. Founded in 2014 by Monique Rodriguez and her husband Melvin, Mielle Organics had built a loyal following with its natural hair products specifically formulated for textured hair.

The acquisition brought Mielle under P&G's Beauty division, joining brands like Pantene, Head & Shoulders, and Herbal Essences. However, P&G committed to maintaining Mielle's focus on serving Black consumers and kept the founding team in leadership positions to preserve the brand's authentic connection with its community.

Acquisition Impact and Community Response

The P&G acquisition of Mielle Organics sparked discussions within the Black community about representation and ownership in the beauty industry. While some consumers expressed concerns about potential formula changes, others viewed the acquisition as validation of the economic power of Black consumers in the beauty market.

This acquisition follows a pattern seen with other Black-owned beauty brands like Carol's Daughter (acquired by L'Oréal) and Shea Moisture (acquired by Unilever), demonstrating major corporations' recognition of the multicultural beauty market's value.

Packaging Industry Consolidation: Major Players and Trends

The packaging industry continues to consolidate as companies seek economies of scale and expanded capabilities. Beyond Berry Global's acquisition, other significant ownership changes include:

• Amcor's acquisition of Bemis Company for $6.8 billion
• International Paper's divestiture of its consumer packaging business
• WestRock's merger with KapStone Paper and Packaging

These consolidations reflect the industry's response to changing consumer preferences, sustainability requirements, and e-commerce growth. Many packaging suppliers, including those providing specialized products like premium pre-rolled cones for various industries, have adapted their business models to accommodate these market shifts.

Beauty Brand Acquisitions: Strategic Moves by Industry Giants

The beauty industry has seen numerous high-profile acquisitions beyond Mielle Organics. Major conglomerates continue to expand their portfolios through strategic purchases:

L'Oréal's Expansion Strategy

L'Oréal has maintained an active acquisition strategy, purchasing brands like Youth to the People, Thayers Natural Remedies, and CeraVe in recent years. These acquisitions have strengthened L'Oréal's position in the skincare segment, particularly in clean beauty and dermatologist-recommended products.

Estée Lauder Companies' Portfolio Growth

Estée Lauder Companies has expanded its luxury and prestige offerings through acquisitions of brands like DECIEM (The Ordinary), Dr. Jart+, and Too Faced Cosmetics. These purchases have helped the company reach younger consumers and enter growing market segments.

Similar ownership patterns can be observed across the beauty industry, as detailed in an analysis of the ownership behind brands like Kayali, Revlon, and Suave.

Industry Impact and Future Outlook for Beauty and Packaging Sectors

The ongoing ownership changes in both the beauty and packaging industries signal several important trends that will likely continue in the coming years:

Increased Focus on Sustainability

New owners are investing heavily in sustainable packaging solutions and clean beauty formulations. For example, following its acquisition, Berry Global announced accelerated sustainability targets, including increased use of recycled content and development of more easily recyclable packaging designs.

Digital Transformation

Acquisitions are often followed by significant investments in digital capabilities. P&G has leveraged its digital expertise to expand Mielle Organics' e-commerce presence, while packaging companies are investing in smart packaging technologies and improved supply chain visibility.

Market Expansion Strategies

New ownership often brings expanded distribution opportunities. Mielle Organics has gained access to P&G's global distribution network, potentially reaching consumers in markets previously inaccessible to the independent brand.

These ownership changes reflect broader economic trends and investment patterns, similar to those seen in beverage and retail brand ownership.

As these industries continue to evolve, understanding the complex web of ownership becomes increasingly important for industry professionals, investors, and conscious consumers looking to make informed purchasing decisions based on company values and practices.