Our Corporate team has advised Arete Capital Partners on its £2.65 million growth capital investment in KillaBrush, the innovative hair and scalp health brand founded by beauty entrepreneurs Penelope Cheshire and Matt Lumb.
KillaBrush has established itself as a fast-growing brand within the hair and scalp health market, developing products designed to support healthier hair and scalp care routines. The investment will support the business as it strengthens its management and operational capabilities, accelerates expansion across the UK and international markets, and broadens its product portfolio.
Founded by Penelope Cheshire, who previously founded and scaled Beauty Works before leading the business through its acquisition by private equity firm L Catterton in 2021, and Matt Lumb, former CEO of Tangle Teezer, KillaBrush is well-positioned to capitalise on growing consumer demand in the beauty and wellness sector.
For Arete Capital Partners, the investment reflects its commitment to supporting ambitious founder-led businesses with both capital and strategic expertise. As part of the transaction, Arete's Managing Partner, Mike Fletcher, will join the KillaBrush board and work alongside the founders as they continue to execute the company's growth strategy.
Our team was led by Corporate Partner Elan Iorwerth, supported by Associates Laurence Laidler and Sidney Pearson, with specialist Commercial advice provided by Partner Sarah Simpson.
Reflecting on the deal, Penelope Cheshire, CEO and Co-founder of KillaBrush, commented: "This investment marks an exciting milestone for KillaBrush as we continue to build the business and bring our products to even more consumers. We are grateful for the support and guidance we received throughout the transaction and look forward to working with Arete Capital Partners as we enter the next phase of growth."
Mike Fletcher, Managing Partner at Arete Capital Partners, said: “A major part of our investment approach is backing high-quality entrepreneurs who have already demonstrated their ability to build successful businesses in markets they understand exceptionally well.
“Penny and Matt have exactly that experience we look for, and it was a significant part of what attracted us to KillaBrush."
Arete Capital Partners has a strong track record of supporting ambitious founder-led businesses, and we were delighted to advise the team on this investment in KillaBrush. The transaction brings together an experienced investor and an exciting, high-growth brand with significant potential. It was a pleasure to work alongside Arete and the wider deal team to help deliver this investment, and we wish all parties every success for the future.Elan Iorwerth
Corporate Partner at Hill Dickinson