A SCOTTISH manufacturing firm has been acquired by a major Canadian beauty products company, it has been announced.
Barony Universal, which manufactures and exports aerosols to more than 30 countries and employs more than 200 people at its base in Ayrshire, has been acquired by the Québec-based beauty giant Knowlton Development Corporation.
Best known as kdc/on, Knowlton Development Corporation, manufactures “beauty, body, scented, and living solutions for some of the world's most iconic and emerging brands”.
Barony Universal was previously sold to C.A.L.M in 2022 by the Russian chemical firm Arnest Group after its directors resigned amid sanctions placed upon the interests of companies from Russia following the invasion of Ukraine.
The Irvine firm is described as “the UK's largest independent filler of personal care and household aerosol products”.
Kdc/one said in its announcement of the acquisition of the Scottish firm that it hopes to strengthen its footprint in Europe and expand the business into a new market.
Nicholas Whitley, chief executive of kdc/one, said: “This strategic acquisition combines two complementary businesses to expand our global capabilities and deliver even greater value to our customers.
“Under the current management team, Barony has consistently grown and differentiated itself in the market by investing in its people, capabilities, and technology. Together, we share a commitment to best-in-class innovation, manufacturing, and delivering the highest-quality products to the world's leading brands.
“We are excited to welcome the talented team at Barony as we pursue a shared vision for long-term growth.”
Barony has been a premium manufacturer and global exporter of aerosols for more than three decades.
Camille Chammas, chairperson of Barony, added: “Joining kdc/one marks a major milestone for Barony, giving us the scale, resources, and innovation platform to serve our customers with even greater impact.
“We look forward to leveraging kdc/one's deep relationships and expertise in product formulation, design, packaging, and manufacturing as we embark on this exciting new chapter together.”
