Frédéric Fekkai is founded his namesake company in 1996 -- and then sold it in 2008. Now he is returning, to lead its next phase of growth.

Fekkai, in partnership with Cornell Capital, has acquired Frédéric Fekkai Brands. The partners purchased the company from an ownership group that purchased the business in 2015 -- Dilesh Mehta, Tony Bajaj, Joel Ronkin and Amy Sachs.

Fekkai says, "I am thrilled to rejoin Fekkai Brands and eager to reconnect with the salons, teams and consumers. This acquisition will provide me the opportunity to reinfuse my passion for innovation into the brand, while reigniting its growth and guiding Fekkai Brands through its next chapter in a modern and exciting way."

Fekkai Brands develops and produces hair and body care products, including shampoos, conditioners, treatments, hair fragrances and styling products. The company also owns and operates a number of salons across the U.S. 

Blue Mistral LLC, a holding company founded by Fekkai and Cornell Capital, will own and operate Fekkai Brands together with Bastide, a fast-growing Provence-based provider of luxury fragrances, hand, and body care products that Mr. Fekkai has led since 2017.

As chief executive officer of Blue Mistral, Fekkai will accelerate the growth of the Fekkai Brands and salons by focusing on education, innovation, and customer experience -- while also leveraging opportunities for collaboration with Bastide.

Henry Cornell, senior partner of Cornell Capital, says, "The opportunity to partner with Frédéric, a proven entrepreneur in the beauty sector, as he returns to the helm of his iconic brand is truly compelling. Leveraging Cornell Capital's cross-border network and operational expertise, and Frédéric's deep relationships and reputation within the industry, Fekkai Brands is well-positioned to succeed in the growing global cosmetics and personal care industry."

Photo: (L) Frédéric Fekkai, Photo by Pamela Berkovic