Yesterday, Revolution Beauty has announced it is officially up for sale after receiving a formal acquisition offer from an unnamed bidder. The proposal aims to acquire the entirety of the embattled UK make-up brand’s issued and remaining share capital.
The decision comes after a turbulent period for the mass-market beauty player, including a strategic funding review launched in May. As part of this process, Revolution Beauty had been seeking equity support from major shareholders. The board ultimately concluded that launching a formal sale process would be the most appropriate next step, given the current financial and operational challenges.
Leading the sales effort is investment banking and corporate broking firm Panmure Liberum. In a statement, Revolution Beauty invited other interested parties to submit expressions of interest in acquiring the company’s full share capital.
To oversee the next phase, the company has appointed Iain McDonald — former THG director and founder of Belerion Capital — as Non-Executive Chair. He replaces Alistair McGeorge, who is stepping down. The board praised McDonald’s PLC and takeover experience, stating he is well-suited to guide the business through the strategic transition.
The sale announcement comes amid ongoing financial and leadership upheaval. Revolution Beauty reported a 26% drop in revenue for fiscal year 2025, with turnover falling to £141.6 million following the discontinuation of over 6,000 SKUs. The company is currently undergoing a wide-reaching restructure to streamline operations and focus on a core, scalable product range across global retail channels.
