Clicks + Capital: Turning E-Commerce Success Into Thriving Exits
According to Statista, almost 28% of US beauty and personal care sales in the United States in 2024 will take place online, and, globally, beauty e-commerce sales now exceed those of specialty retail. E-Commerce has become one of the most important drivers of growth for the beauty industry and investors have taken notice, spawning a new ecosystem of capital sources and acquisition platforms focused on digital selling that supplements more traditional venture capital and private equity sources. For beauty brands, this renewed investor interest comes at a perfect time, since a robust omnichannel strategy that includes digital channels like DTC, Amazon, social selling, and retailer marketplaces is no longer an option - it’s a requirement - but with that comes increasing complexity, cost, and a need for specialized knowledge to thrive in a crowded space.
During this discussion, we’ll hear from beauty brands that have cracked the code and thrived in the digital space and consider strategies for using digital success to attract thriving exits.
This conversation is in collaboration with Fortunet, a leading investment bank specializing in and exclusively focused on the e-commerce industry. Their specialized expertise is key in navigating the complexities of M&A within the e-commerce landscape, bringing invaluable insights to our discussion.
My mission is to help beauty brands achieve their full potential and reach new audiences through innovative and effective sales and marketing strategies. I have a proven track record of increasing sales, expanding distribution channels, launching new products, and enhancing brand awareness and loyalty. I also have a passion for learning and staying updated on the latest trends and best practices in the beauty industry.
John’s beauty and wellness industry expertise is centered around identifying market opportunities, strategic planning, developing strategies for growth, cash and financial strategy, and building operational excellence. He’s an entrepreneurial thinker with diverse work experience and a bias for creativity and innovation that’s actionable and realistic.
John is also the founder and CEO of his own skin health brand, Ernest Supplies. He also spent six years as the COO / CFO of Paper Magazine, a multi-platform media company and content creation agency. In 2014, he was part of the team that “Broke the Internet.” Before that, John spent 10 years investing in and helping to grow well-known consumer brands, including Intermix, Skullcandy, All Saints, Morgenthal Frederics, and others.
