Beiersdorf, the German parent company behind premium Swiss skincare brand La Prairie, has signed an agreement with Clinique La Prairie to acquire the health and longevity brand’s real estate assets at its lakeside flagship in Montreux, Switzerland.

The transaction is expected to be completed later this year, subject to customary closing conditions. The financial details have not been disclosed.

Through the acquisition, the iconic Clinique La Prairie building, called La Résidence – a typical Swiss-style villa which features in the La Prairie brand emblem – will become part of the Beiersdorf group. Additionally, the company will acquire another six buildings on the Clinique La Prairie premises.

Clinique La Prairie will continue to operate the on-site medical and health clinic.

Now with a presence in more than 70 countries, the La Prairie skincare brand was created at Clinique La Prairie’s Montreux flagship in 1978. However, La Prairie and Clinique La Prairie have been separate entities with distinct brands since the 1980s.

Beiersdorf officially acquired La Prairie in 1991.

Established in 1931, the Clinique La Prairie site is claimed to be where the original research into cellular therapy for use in rejuvenating cosmetic products took place. Since then, the cellular complex has remained the essential scientific basis of all of La Prairie’s skincare products.

Vincent Warnery, Beiersdorf CEO, said: “I’m thrilled about the acquisition of this historic real estate property in Montreux, Switzerland, reuniting the iconic La Prairie brand with its birthplace.

"This strategic move strengthens Beiersdorf's luxury business and fosters a unique partnership between La Prairie and Clinique La Prairie that inspires even closer collaboration opportunities.”

Simone Gibertoni, CEO of Clinique La Prairie, added: “We very much welcome this acquisition and the possibilities of further collaboration.

“Clinique La Prairie will reinforce its international development plan, strengthening our leadership in the world of health and longevity.”

Learn more about the history of Clinique La Prairie and what the future holds for the brand in Spa Business’ exclusive interview with Gibertoni.