Launched back in 2011, Glossybox had raised $72 million from four investors over the course of its activity so far, according to Crunchbase.
Before this acquisition, its majority shareholders were Rocket Internet and Kinnevik Online. Glossybox is generally considered a main contender to fellow beauty box brand, Birchbox.
Terms of the deal have not been disclosed. Following the acquisition, the Hut Group reportedly doubled its valuation in its latest funding round, reaching £2.5bn.
A focus on the EU
According to TechCrunch, THG operates more than 140 websites retailing premium and claims “hundreds of millions” of users globally across its market footprint, shipping 37 million items annually.
The company said it intends to invest in Glossybox’s Berlin base, developing its function to become a “tech-hub” for the wider Group. Commentators suggest this plan indicates the UK company is keen to establish an ever stronger foothold in the EU ahead of Brexit.
Matthew Moulding, founder and CEO of THG, said the acquisition will strongly augment The Hut Group’s profile.
“This is another significant investment for The Hut Group,” he says. “In Glossybox, we have acquired a great brand, with a solid and engaged customer base that, once powered through our platform and marketing infrastructure, should be capable of further significant growth.”
Caren Genthner-Kappesz, CEO of Glossybox, described THG as “the right strategic partner to drive our business forward.”