London College of Beauty Therapy acquired by Fashion Retail Academy

The Fashion Retail Academy (FRA) has acquired leading beauty school London College of Beauty Therapy (LCBT).

As part of the acquisition, both the FRA and LCBT will also become part of a new charity, Education for Industry (EFI) Group, a structure designed to provide support for both colleges’ future growth.

FRA chief executive Lee Lucas, will become chief executive of EFI Group and both colleges and former LCBT chief executive Christianne Cavaliere will depart the business.

EFI Group will contain four divisions: FRA, LCBT, EFI Training and EFI Awards, which will share group functions such as Finance, Operations, Marketing and Student Services.

FRA has trained over 13,000 students for entry-level roles in fashion and retail since 2005.

Its acquisition of LCBT marks an expansion of its commitment to provide industry-backed vocational and academic courses combined with industry enrichment to prepare graduates for careers.

LCBT was established in 1995 and has grown to become a leading provider of fully funded courses for students aged 16-19 in areas such as beauty therapy, hair, make-up and aesthetics.

For many years, LCBT has been a partner of Professional Beauty Awards, hosting the live judging days and trade tests. 

The FRA and LCBT will retain their individual identities and programmes and continue to operate independently of one another.

Over time, best practice from both colleges will be integrated to provide students with enhanced learning resources, access to a broader industry network, and increased opportunities to gain relevant experience.

Lee Lucas said: “This strategic acquisition reflects the dedication of both colleges to offer a comprehensive and cutting-edge education that prepares our graduates for success in the dynamic worlds of fashion, retail and beauty.

He added, “Together, we will continue to elevate creativity, innovation, and excellence across fashion, beauty and more new sectors, to empower the next generation of industry leaders.”

Christianne Cavaliere Moncayo said: “This is an exciting next step for LCBT’s continued success.

“Following the legacy of our founder, Eileen Cavalier OBE, it is important to us that LCBT thrives under the leadership of an organisation with a strong focus on quality education for their learners, delivers for industry, and cares for their staff community.”

The move comes at a time of growth for the Fashion Retail Academy, as it prepares to move to a new campus in September, Electra House on Moorgate.

LCBT will remain in its enviable central London location close to Oxford Circus, where it also operates a training salon.