Gerrard International acquires Jessica Cosmetics nail brand
By Rebecca Hitchon | 11 December 2025 | Brands, Movers & Shakers, News
Nail and beauty distributor & training provider, Gerrard International, has announced its acquisition of Jessica Cosmetics.
The Hertfordshire-based company, founded by manicurist, Susan Gerrard, and her late husband, Ian, has been leading Jessica Cosmetics’ UK arm for the past 35 years, helping to make it the nailcare brand’s most successful market.
The announcement follows the passing of Jessica Cosmetics’ founder & former president, Jessica Vartoughian, in April this year. The industry icon, nicknamed the ‘The First Lady of Nails’ by the New York Times, founded the Jessica brand in 1978 based on the philosophy of treating the nail from the foundation.
Jessica’s daughter, Nadia Shamsi, comments: “Losing my mother, Jessica, earlier this year has been the most profound heartbreak of my life. Alongside my grief has been the heavy responsibility of deciding how best to honour the legacy she poured her heart and soul into. Jessica was an extraordinary woman who built not just a brand, but a philosophy and loyal following. Her work deserves to be nurtured and allowed to thrive for generations to come.
“There was only ever one family and company I trusted to carry her legacy with the same love, respect and commitment she devoted to it. Susan and Ian Gerrard – and the Gerrard family – have been a key part of our lives for decades.”
Nadia continues: “They helped bring my mother’s vision to the UK 35 years ago and have championed it with unwavering passion and expertise. Knowing that the brand my mother built will be cared for by people who truly understand it brings me immense comfort.
“I am certain the Gerrards will guide Jessica into its next chapter with the same devotion, integrity and skill that defined my mother’s life work. Her legacy could not be in safer hands.”
“Jessica and I stood side-by-side for more than three decades, united by a belief that education, artistry and care could transform the professional nail industry,” adds Susan Gerrard, founder of Gerrard International.
“The Jessica brand has been woven into the fabric of Gerrard International since the day we launched it into the UK salon and spa market 35 years ago. It has shaped our company, values and relationships with thousands of professionals across the country: a community whose loyalty and passion continue to inspire us every day.
“To be entrusted with Jessica’s legacy is both an honour and deeply personal responsibility,” Susan continues. “We will continue to build on everything Jessica created, protecting the heritage she established while ensuring the brand evolves with the needs of modern professionals and their clients.
“Today, Gerrard International becomes the home to two remarkable brands – Mii and Jessica – each with a unique story but united by our commitment to excellence, education and care.”
Jessica Cosmetics’ range of products, which includes natural nail treatments, over 250 Custom Nail Colours, Phēnom Vivid Colour, GELeration Soak-Off Gel Polishes and the ZenSpa Pedicure range, is available in over 60 countries worldwide.
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