The Fashion Retail Academy has acquired the London College of Beauty Therapy, forming a joint group to drive forward industry-specific skills and education for those aged 16+.
Having trained over 13,000 students for entry-level roles in fashion and retail since 2005, the FRA’s acquisition of LCBT strengthens its commitment to providing industry-backed vocational and academic courses combined with industry enrichment to prepare graduates for careers in industry.
The move sees both the FRA and LCBT become part of a new charity, Education for Industry (EFI) Group, a structure which hopes to provide support for both colleges’ future growth and expansion.
EFI Group will contain four divisions – FRA, LCBT, EFI Training and EFI Awards – while group functions such as finance, operations, marketing and student services will support all divisions.
FRA CEO Lee Lucas will join the newly-formed EFI Group under the same position, while former LCBT CEO Christianne Cavaliere will depart the business.
The FRA and LCBT will still 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”.
“I could not be more delighted to welcome LCBT into the FRA family. 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,” said Lucas.
“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.”
The move comes at a time of growth for the Fashion Retail Academy, as it prepares to move to a new campus in September 2024.
Electra House on Moorgate will double the footprint of its current building in support of the FRA’s ambition to double student numbers by 2029.
LCBT will remain in its central London location close to Oxford Circus, where it operates a popular training salon.
Established in 1995, LCBT has grown to become a top London provider of fully funded courses for students aged 16-19 in areas such as beauty therapy, hair, makeup and aesthetics.