Sojourner expands consumer portfolio with Lornamead acquisition

USA – Sojourner Consumer Partners, an American private equity firm, has acquired Lornamead North America, a U.S. manufacturer and supplier of personal care products, thereby expanding its consumer portfolio. 

This marks a strategic corporate carve-out that positions the company for renewed growth and brand revitalization. 

The transaction, which includes a portfolio of heritage personal care brands, underscores Sojourner’s commitment to investing in established consumer businesses with strong market potential.

The acquisition allows Sojourner to provide dedicated resources and strategic guidance, ensuring these brands remain competitive in today’s evolving marketplace. 

Rob DesMarais, Senior Partner at Sojourner, emphasized, “This acquisition aligns with our strategy of investing in established consumer brands that will benefit from dedicated resources and strategic guidance.”

“We look forward to supporting their transition to an independent company and unlocking its full potential.”

He noted that Lornamead’s transition to an independent entity will unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.

Meanwhile, Lornamead has appointed Emily Fong Mitchell as Vice Chair, bringing 20 years of experience from Colgate-Palmolive, where she led global initiatives for personal and oral care. 

As part of the agreement, the company will maintain its manufacturing and office facilities in Tonawanda, New York, ensuring continuity in operations while leveraging Sojourner’s industry expertise.

This acquisition marks a significant milestone for Lornamead, as it separates from Meiyume and enters a new phase of strategic development.

Lornamead offers a diverse range of personal care products, including hair care, skincare, men’s grooming, and oral care products. 

The brand’s portfolio features iconic brands such as Yardley London, Finesse, Aqua Net, and Lypsyl, which have maintained long-standing consumer loyalty. 

In addition, Lornamead holds a leading position in U.S. private-label toothpaste and oral analgesics, further strengthening its presence in the personal care sector.

Meanwhile, L’Oréal Groupe has revealed its move to acquire a majority stake in the British skincare brand Medik8, solidifying its expansion into the premium skincare market. 

However, Inflexion, a prominent European mid-market private equity firm, which acquired Medik8 in 2021, will retain a minority stake in the company as part of the transaction, ensuring its continued involvement in the company’s future development.

In addition, Elliot Isaacs, the founder of Medik8, will retain his position on the board, while the existing management committee will stay in place to maintain operational stability and continuity.

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