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Writer's pictureMark Hartmann

How Jessica DeLuca Sold Cult Beauty for £275M and Created 29 Millionaires

Jessica DeLuca co-founded Cult Beauty in 2008, creating one of the UK’s leading online beauty retailers. In this episode of Built to Sell Radio, Jessica reveals the path that led her to sell the business for £275 million to The Hut Group (THG). 


DeLuca’s background in tech shaped the business, with her love for data and precision leading to a meticulously curated platform. Frustrated by the lack of unbiased information in the beauty industry, she built a database of expert advice, allowing customers to search for products tailored to their needs—an approach that set Cult Beauty apart from the competition. 


In this episode, you discover how to: 

  • Use niche expertise to build credibility and trust in a saturated market. 

  • Navigate early funding rounds and avoid common pitfalls. 

  • Structure a business for acquisition from the start. 

  • Keep competitive tension alive during the acquisition process to maximize valuation. 


DeLuca's journey offers invaluable insights into transforming frustration into a unique value proposition, building a niche brand, and securing a life-changing exit for her and her team.


Want to learn how to make your business irresistible to buyers? CLICK HERE to schedule a meeting with me today. 






Video: How Jessica DeLuca Sold Cult Beauty for £275M and Created 29 Millionaires



 
Mark Hartmann - CEO of HartmannRhodes

Mark Hartmann is a three-time Inc 500|5000 CEO with a rich sales, operations, and leadership background in the insurance, financial services, and healthcare sectors. With extensive experience growing and selling his own businesses, Mark leverages his expertise to help owners grow and sell businesses valued at $1M —$25M. He’s earned a Master of Business Administration from Eastern University, a master of science degree in organizational change management from St. Elizabeth University, and a graduate certificate in executive coaching from Columbia University. Mark’s professional certifications include Certified Mergers and Acquisitions Professional (CM&AP), Certified Business Intermediary (CBI), Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA), and Certified Value Builder (CVB).

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