Manchester-based Beauty Bay has been sold to a French-owned investment group after it lined up administrators last month.

The future of the brand was secured through a sale of the business and its assets via a pre-pack transaction, following its struggles with economic pressures in the UK such as cost inflation and subdued consumer confidence.

Interpath’s Rick Harrison and James Clark were appointed joint administrators on March 6, and immediately concluded a sale of the business to AA Investments Group.

The firm specialises in operating companies across the beauty, luxury and ecommerce sectors.

Beauty Bay undertook a review of investment options, but placed the company into administration when no other solution was presented.

The news will see 62 employees move to AA Investments Group, and co-founder Arron Gabbie will stay at Beauty Bay for a short time to ensure a smooth transition to the new owner.

Beauty Bay founders Arron and David Gabbie said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to our brilliant team who have helped to make Beauty Bay everything that it is today. Their commitment and support over the last 27 years have been unwavering, no more so than over these past few weeks.”

Harrison added: “Since its inception in 1999, Beauty Bay has grown to become one of the UK’s leading online beauty retailers, selling well-known cosmetics and cult brands to over 5 million customers.

“We’re pleased to have concluded this transaction, which will see the brand continue under new ownership, and wish everyone connected with the business all the best for the future.” 

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