Inflexion Invests in French Nail Care Brand Manucurist

European private equity firm Inflexion has secured a significant minority stake in Manucurist, a rapidly expanding French brand specializing in plant-based, vegan nail care and at-home gel manicure systems. The investment, made through Inflexion's Enterprise Fund VI, marks the first external capital infusion for the founder-led company, which will retain majority ownership. While financial specifics remain undisclosed, industry reports suggest the transaction valued Manucurist at approximately €300 million, positioning it as a highly sought-after asset in the competitive beauty sector.

Manucurist, established in 2016, has carved out a distinct niche by focusing on innovative, eco-conscious formulations and convenient at-home solutions. The brand's product portfolio, including its signature LED gel manicure kits, has achieved broad market penetration, reaching consumers across more than 40 countries through direct-to-consumer channels, retail partnerships, pharmacies, and online marketplaces. With projected revenues of $119 million for the current year, Manucurist demonstrates robust growth momentum within the global beauty market, a sector that continues to see strong consumer demand for sustainable and performance-driven products.

Inflexion intends to leverage its extensive operational expertise to accelerate Manucurist's international expansion, with a particular focus on penetrating the key U.S. market and broadening its retail footprint. Strategic investments are also planned to bolster the brand's digital presence, enhance its marketplace capabilities, and upgrade internal systems and product development initiatives. This growth-oriented strategy aligns with Manucurist's ambition to double its business within the next four to five years, potentially culminating in a future sale to a strategic acquirer.

The partnership between Inflexion and Manucurist echoes Inflexion's successful prior investments in the consumer goods space. Notably, the firm's four-year involvement with British skincare brand Medik8 saw sales increase more than fourfold and headcount triple, ultimately leading to a majority stake acquisition by L'Oréal in 2025, with Inflexion retaining a minority interest. This precedent highlights Inflexion's ability to foster significant value creation and support founder-led businesses through critical growth phases.

The competitive nature of the deal process underscores Manucurist's appeal. Both Advent International and Verlinvest were reportedly vying for the investment opportunity, with Alantra serving as the exclusive financial advisor to Manucurist's shareholders. The backing from Inflexion is expected to provide Manucurist with the strategic and financial resources necessary to capitalize on emerging market trends, including the increasing consumer preference for clean beauty and at-home self-care solutions.

Gaëlle Lebrat Personnaz, founder and co-chief executive of Manucurist, expressed confidence in the partnership, stating, “In Inflexion, we have found a partner who shares that vision.” This sentiment suggests a shared long-term outlook focused on sustained growth and market leadership in the dynamic beauty industry. The collaboration is poised to drive innovation and expand Manucurist's global reach.