The recent acquisition of the Mibelle Group by Spanish company Persán S.A. potentially marks a new chapter for Mibelle Biochemistry, a subsidiary known for its innovative cosmetic active ingredients. While the acquisition signals Persán’s expansion into personal care, it also raises an important question: what does this mean for the future of Mibelle Biochemistry?
Strategic Expansion, Distinct Specializations
Persán S.A., a family-owned leader in home care with more than 80 years of history, acquired the Mibelle Group in early 2025. The transaction, which excludes the South Korean subsidiary Gowoonsesang (acquired by L’Oréal in late 2024), includes all other Mibelle entities, along with customer and supplier contracts and employee agreements.
Mibelle Group, like Persán, is a finished goods company, known for its diverse range in personal care, cosmetics, and dietary supplements. Mibelle Biochemistry, however, is a division focused on supplying high-performance active ingredients for the cosmetics industry, setting it apart from the parent group’s focus on finished products.
This acquisition is a significant move for Persán as it extends its reach into the personal care market. However, integrating Mibelle Biochemistry into a portfolio rooted in home and fabric care presents both challenges and potential opportunities.
It remains to be seen whether Mibelle Biochemistry will stay with Persán or find a new owner. If it does become available, it would present an exciting opportunity for potential buyers looking to expand in the high-performance active ingredients market.
A Proven Track Record in Innovation
Mibelle Biochemistry has been a key player in cosmetic science since its founding in 1991. It gained early recognition with the development of CM-glucan, a molecule known for supporting the skin’s natural defenses, and continued to innovate with products like PhytoCellTec™ Malus Domestica, one of the first active ingredients based on plant stem cells.
A recent highlight is PhytoCellTec™ Exosomes, a plant-derived exosome technology designed to enhance cellular communication and rejuvenate the skin. The ingredient won the Bronze Award in the Innovation Zone Best Ingredient Award in the Active Ingredients category at the in-cosmetics Global 2025 show, underscoring Mibelle Biochemistry’s ongoing commitment to scientific innovation and sustainable development.
At Crossroads or a Catalyst?
With its new ownership under Persán, Mibelle Biochemistry finds itself at crossroads. Will it be fully integrated into a more diversified Persán? Will it continue as an independent force for innovation within a larger company? Or could it eventually be divested to a business more focused on skin care?
What is clear is that the market for cosmetic active ingredient companies remains strong. Recent moves — such as Hallstar acquiring Sytheon to secure a leading position in the growing bakuchiol market, Croda purchasing Solus Biotech for advanced fermentation and ceramide capabilities, and Clariant expanding into high-value actives with Lucas Meyer Cosmetics — all point to the same trend: companies are eager to acquire platforms with innovative, sustainable technologies and global reach. Mibelle Biochemistry’s strong track record and international presence could make it an attractive option for future buyers.
At this point, the direction remains uncertain. However, Mibelle Biochemistry’s specialization in active ingredients and its established global footprint position it as a valuable asset, whether for Persán or a potential future partner.
Conclusion
Persán’s acquisition of the Mibelle Group has opened up several possibilities for Mibelle Biochemistry’s future. Whether it stays within the broader Persán family or finds new ownership, one thing is certain: Mibelle Biochemistry’s commitment to innovation continues to set it up for success, no matter where it goes from here.
Kline + Company has been tracking the personal care ingredients and actives market for over 30 years. Contact our expert teams if you are interested in assessing the impact of Mibelle’s acquisition or other market developments in the personal care industry.
