Per Reuters, L’Oréal CEO Nicolas Hieronimus recently confirmed the company is seeking early access to the lucrative Gucci beauty license, which is currently held by Coty Inc. until 2028.
As reported by Global Cosmetic Industry in October 2025, Kering and L’Oréal entered a long-term strategic partnership in luxury beauty and wellness. The agreement, including the sale of Creed (acquired by Kering in 2023) and the establishment of 50-year licenses on key Kering brands, including Gucci, is valued at €4 billion (more than $4.6 billion dollars). The deal is expected to close in the first half of 2026. L’Oréal will also pay royalties to Kering for the use of its licensed brands.
The Gucci license served as the "decisive piece" in a major deal last year, where L’Oréal acquired Kering’s beauty division, per Reuters.
While industry sources suggest L’Oréal viewed the Creed acquisition as a necessary "dowry" to eventually secure Gucci, Hieronimus stated the company would be "happy to get the brand sooner" and that discussions are ongoing between Kering and Coty.
