Ulta Beauty Acquires Space NK

Ulta Beauty has announced the acquisition of British beauty retailer Space NK, marking the American retail giant’s expansion into the UK and Ireland. The deal sees Space NK acquired from Manzanita Capital, the beauty-focused investment firm that purchased the brand from founder Nicky Kinnaird 23 years ago. Financial terms have not been disclosed.

Founded in London in 1993, Space NK has become a go-to destination for beauty discovery, known for its expertly curated edit of emerging, established, and under-the-radar brands, and its personalised, experience-led approach to shopping both in-store and online. With 83 locations across the UK and Ireland, the brand will continue to operate as a standalone subsidiary under Ulta’s ownership. Its existing leadership team, including CEO Andy Lightfoot, will remain in place.

“We are excited to enter the UK market via the Space NK banner,” said Kecia Steelman, president and CEO of Ulta Beauty. “International expansion is an integral part of our Ulta Beauty Unleashed plan, and the acquisition of Space NK offers a unique and strategically compelling opportunity to enter the growing UK market with a successful and growing brand. Along with our initiatives in Mexico and the Middle East, we are creating a broader platform for Ulta Beauty to unlock long-term, profitable growth.”

Steelman continued, “Space NK’s management team, with the backing of Manzanita Capital, has done an excellent job building a differentiated beauty experience that inspires consumers through tailored product mixes. We look forward to working with the Space NK team to support their continued growth and success.”

Founded in 1990, Ulta Beauty is the largest specialty beauty retailer in the US, with more than 1,450 stores nationwide. Its model — combining mass, prestige, and professional products under one roof — spans cosmetics, skincare, haircare, fragrance, and salon services, and has reshaped how Americans shop for beauty.

“We have long respected Ulta Beauty as the leading specialty beauty retailer in the U.S.,” said Andy Lightfoot, CEO of Space NK. “We are energised and excited by the opportunity to join Ulta Beauty and benefit from its scale, brand relationships and resources to further fuel our mission to serve beauty obsessed consumers through expertise and innovation.”