Uala Acquisition: Key Details, Impact, and What Comes Next

The acquisition of Uala by Treatwell marks a significant milestone in the beauty and wellness industry. By merging with Uala, Treatwell consolidates its market presence in Southern Europe, enhancing its service offerings and technological capabilities. This strategic move not only strengthens Treatwell's leadership but also promises improved management solutions for beauty salons and a superior user experience.

What Is Uala?

Founded in 2015, Uala specializes in providing comprehensive management solutions for beauty salons and wellness centers. Its core services include appointment scheduling, customer relationship management, and business analytics. Uala differentiates itself in the market with its user-friendly interface and robust technological infrastructure, which streamline operations and enhance customer engagement for beauty professionals.

Who Acquired Uala?

Treatwell serves as a prominent online booking platform in the beauty and wellness industry, connecting customers with a variety of service providers. Key offerings include hairdressing, nail care, hair removal, cosmetic treatments, and massages, along with specialized grooming services for men. The platform is known for its user-friendly interface, 24/7 booking capabilities, and last-minute deals, positioning it as a leading and influential service provider in ensuring quality and customer satisfaction.

When Was Uala Acquired?

Treatwell acquired Uala on September 7, 2022. This acquisition came at a time when the beauty and wellness industry was increasingly focusing on digital transformation and consolidation. Companies were merging to create comprehensive platforms that offer both booking services and salon management solutions. The merger aimed to strengthen Treatwell's position in Southern Europe, enhance service delivery, and expand its international workforce, reflecting broader industry trends towards technological integration and workforce expansion.

Why Was Uala Acquired?

• Market Expansion: The merger strengthens Treatwell's business in Southern Europe, solidifying its position as the leader for bookings in the beauty and wellness sector and the digitized management of salons. Uala has become the leader in 13 Southern European countries, and the merger brings this market under Treatwell's umbrella.
• Technology Integration: The merger with Uala, a leading salon management software company, enhances Treatwell's capabilities in digitized salon management. Salons using Uala's SaaS are now present on Treatwell's marketplace, providing a seamless integration of services.
• Competitive Advantage: The merger combines Treatwell's leading marketplace and SaaS platform with Uala's extensive presence and management software in Southern Europe. This strategic move positions Treatwell as a point of reference for both beauty and wellness bookings and digitized salon management, offering a comprehensive solution that strengthens their market position against competitors.

Acquisition Terms

• Acquisition Price: The acquisition price was not publicly disclosed.
• Payment Method: The payment method used in the transaction was not specified.
• Key Conditions or Agreements:
  • The group will operate under the Treatwell name.
  • Salons using Uala's SaaS are now present on Treatwell's marketplace.
  • Treatwell plans to invest up to £34 million (€39 million) in its international workforce, aiming to add 600 employees by the end of 2023.
  • The merger process began in July 2020 and took over two years to complete.
  • Treatwell aims to collaborate with other wellness and beauty management software companies to enhance its service offerings and market visibility.

Impact on Uala

The acquisition of Uala by Treatwell has led to significant changes in operations and management. The merged entity now operates under the Treatwell name, consolidating Uala’s presence in France, Italy, and Spain. This strategic move has also resulted in the integration of Uala’s SaaS into Treatwell’s marketplace, enhancing the visibility and management capabilities for partner salons. Additionally, Treatwell plans to invest up to £34 million (€39 million) in its international workforce, aiming to add 600 employees by the end of 2023, focusing on tech, product, and commercial divisions across key European markets.

In terms of product offerings and services, the merger has strengthened Treatwell’s position as a leading platform for beauty and wellness bookings and digitized salon management. Uala’s management software is now a key asset, helping beauty salon managers in Southern Europe better organize their businesses. While specific employee and customer reactions were not detailed, the overall strategic benefits and enhanced service offerings suggest a positive outlook. For founders considering business transitions, tools like Sunset can assist in managing such processes compliantly, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition.