CORE Industrial Partners Receives Majority Investment in Winky Lux

Winky Lux, a trendsetting beauty brand known for its innovative products and commitment to clean, cruelty-free formulas, has received a majority investment from CORE Industrial Partners, a private equity firm with over$1.58 billion in capital commitments. 

This strategic partnership is a significant milestone for Winky Lux and provides additional resources to accelerate the company’s growth and expand its market reach.

Founded in 2015, Winky Lux is known for its playful makeup and skincare products. The company has gained a cult following among beauty enthusiasts around the world with hit products such as Flower Balm, Universal Brow Pencil and Peeper Perfect Concealer.

"Joining forces with CORE is an exciting next step for Winky Lux," said Natalie Mackey, CEO and co-founder of Winky Lux. "This partnership allows us to meet customer needs, grow our business, maximize existing retailer partnerships with Target, Ulta and Shoppers Drug, and reach new heights in product innovation. We are confident that CORE's experience and resources will help us achieve our long-term goals while staying true to our brand values of joy and creativity."

The investment enables Winky Lux to access funding to expand its digital and physical retail channels. The CEO, co-founders and management team will all remain with the company. Winky Lux has also appointed industry veterans Zack Zavalydriga and Cassandra Batista to the company's board of directors.

John May, Managing Partner of CORE, said, "The growth prospects and underlying demand drivers in the beauty industry remain extremely attractive, and we believe the strength of the Winky Lux brand combined with our resources and operating experience will assist its leadership team in executing its long-term growth plans. We are excited to further participate in the beauty industry through our partnership with Winky Lux."

The company is positioned to enhance Winky Lux's growth capabilities while preserving the brand's unique identity and happiness-centric approach. CORE entered the beauty industry in 2020 through an investment in Cohere Beauty, a beauty and personal care contract manufacturing platform.