Aesop Logo

Aesop, a globally recognized skincare brand, began its journey in Melbourne, Australia, in 1987. Its founder, Dennis Paphitis, initiated the company as a modest studio that crafts personalized skincare mixtures. The company’s name draws inspiration from Aesop’s Fables, a revered series of ancient Greek stories that carry moral lessons.

In the early 1990s, the company made significant strides in the Australian market by opening its first flagship store in Melbourne. Aesop’s focus on high-quality natural ingredients and understated packaging quickly drew attention.

The year 2005 marked a turning point for the brand, as Aesop collaborated with a design firm to overhaul its image and store layout. This revamp created a more refined, contemporary look, boosting the brand’s appeal and recognition.

Aesop’s footprint grew even wider in the following years, reaching beyond Australia’s shores. In the 2010s, the brand expanded across Asia, Europe, and North America. Initially sold only in Aesop stores, its products later appeared in select department stores and cosmetics retailers.

Natura Cosméticos, a Brazilian cosmetics giant, noticed the brand’s growth and acquired a minority stake in Aesop in 2012. This collaboration accelerated Aesop’s global expansion, bringing the brand to over 50 stores by 2014.

In 2016, Natura completed the acquisition by buying the remaining shares, while Aesop retained its autonomy and existing leadership. Now with over 260 outlets in more than 30 nations, Aesop maintains its commitment to quality, simple design, and a dedicated customer base.

While Aesop’s ownership has shifted from Australian hands, its core operations and headquarters continue to thrive in Melbourne. Aesop’s brand presence as a manufacturer of quality and innovation continues to expand across North America, Europe, and Asia, while maintaining its reputation.