Published Online:September 2026
Product Name:The IUP Journal of Case Folio
Product Type:Article
Product Code:IJCF040926
DOI:10.71329/CaseFolio/2026.26.3.54-65
Author Name:Mary Kristine Relopez, Vea Kristine Vallo-Magsaysay, Sandeep Puri and Raul Rodriguez
Availability:YES
Subject/Domain:Management
Download Format:PDF
Pages:54-65
This case examines The Estée Lauder Companies’ (ELC) $2.8 bn acquisition of Tom Ford, the largest disclosed acquisition in ELC’s history. It explores the strategic rationale behind the deal, including portfolio diversification, expansion into luxury fashion, and strengthening ELC’s position in prestige beauty and fragrance. The case also highlights the opportunities and challenges of sustaining Tom Ford’s brand equity in the post-pandemic luxury market following the founder’s departure. Through themes such as luxury brand positioning, omnichannel strategy, gender-neutral beauty, and global expansion, students evaluate acquisition synergies, evolving consumer behavior, and long-term competitive advantage.
On April 28, 2023, Estée Lauder Companies Inc. (ELC) announced the appointment of Guillaume Jesel as the new President and Chief Executive Officer of Tom Ford, effective once the acquisition drew close.2 Jesel was no stranger to ELC, Tom Ford, and the luxury cosmetics industry, having close to ten years experience and expertise