Register to get free articles
Want unlimited access? View Plans
Already have an account? Sign in
Online retailer Beauty Bay has been sold to French-owned AA Investments Group via a pre-pack administration, securing the future of the brand and 62 jobs.
Manchester-based Beauty Bay, which stocks over 200 third-party brands alongside its own-label range, entered administration following sustained financial pressure, appointing Rick Harrison and James Clark from Interpath as joint administrators on 6 March 2026.
The directors cited cost inflation and subdued consumer confidence as primary factors after a review of solvent investment options proved unsuccessful.
The purchaser, AA Investments Group, specialises in the luxury and e-commerce beauty sectors.
Under the terms of the agreement, 62 employees have transferred to the new owners. Joint founder Arron Gabbie will remain with the business for a transition period to assist the new leadership.
Beauty Bay has operated since 1999 and currently serves a reported customer base of over five million.
The transaction allows the online platform to continue trading without disruption to its supply chain or customer service.
Founders Arron and David Gabbie said: “We would like to say a thank you to our team who have helped to make Beauty Bay what it is today. Their commitment and support over the last 27 years have been consistent, including over these past few weeks.”
Harrison, managing director at Interpath, added: “Since 1999, Beauty Bay has grown to become an online beauty retailer, selling cosmetics to over five million customers. We’re pleased to have concluded this transaction which will see the brand continue under new ownership.”
