Canada
![Estée Lauder Companies Logo](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/universal/logo/0-estee_lauder-logo-white-thick-660.png)
![Estée Lauder Companies Logo](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/universal/logo/elc-black-logo.png)
The 40s&50s
The Beginning
Estée and Joseph Lauder found Estée Lauder Cosmetics. The couple divides responsibilities, playing to their strengths: Estée leads creativity, product development, and sales, while Joseph manages finance and operations.
1946
Introducing four
original products
Estée develops her own beauty line starting with four products including an all-purpose skin cream which she sells in Manhattan beauty salons, giving free demonstrations and makeovers.
1947
First department store order
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1940-1950/1947-1.jpg)
Determined to have her products available in only the most elegant stores, Estée convinces the cosmetics buyer from Saks Fifth Avenue to place an order – equivalent to $10,000 today.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1940-1950/1947-2.jpg)
The prestigious Stork Club is a favorite spot where Estée graciously hosts business associates and colleagues.
1952
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1940-1950/1952.jpg)
Decades before social media becomes mainstream, Estée knows the power of word-of-mouth marketing.
“Telephone, Telegraph, Tell A Woman.”
1959
Happy couple
Leonard Lauder marries a beautiful young teacher named Evelyn Hausner who enthusiastically joins the family business. Estée considers her “an extraordinary asset in uncountable ways.”
The 60s
Exceptional Growth
The 1960s mark a crucial period of growth with the construction of three manufacturing facilities, overseas expansion and the launch of two major brands: Aramis – the first men’s prestige fragrance brand and Clinique – which revolutionizes the industry and becomes one of the most successful brands in cosmetics history.
1960
First overseas account
After long and persistent efforts, Estée Lauder lands the Company’s first overseas account in Harrods – the finest store in London. The UK will become a core market.
International expansion
International expansion
At a time when many say the post-war economies aren’t strong enough to support prestige cosmetics, the Lauders see opportunity. Leonard believes that with economic improvement, there will be a hunger for small luxuries.
This proves to be true as the Company begins building its global footprint in the 1960s. Initial countries and territories:
- Americas
- Canada
- Central America
- Puerto Rico
- Europe
- Austria
- Belgium
- Denmark
- England
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Italy
- The Netherlands
- Norway
- Portugal
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Asia
- Australia
- Hong Kong (China)
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Singapore
- Thailand
“In many ways women share a common language. No matter what our culture, no matter what our background, we understand each other.”
1962
Estée’s first
makeup collection
A limited edition makeup collection debuts, providing a complete package of products designed for evening wear. Years later, the original pattern on the collection’s exterior packaging inspires the advertising for the Estée Lauder Mad Men® collection.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1960/1962-first-ever-makeup-v2.jpg)
1964
Ronald S. Lauder
joins Company
After graduating from the Wharton School of Business, Ronald follows his brother into the family business, spending time overseas in Belgium and Paris. His mastery of several languages is of tremendous value to the Company.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1960/1964-ronald-s-lauder-joins-company.jpg)
1967
Caring for
the community
The Lauder family’s first philanthropic venture is to create new, improved play areas for children in New York City’s Central Park.
1967
Alligator compact
The elegant 24-kt. gold-plated Golden Alligator refillable compact is introduced as the ultimate beauty accessory for loose or pressed powder. This one is still sold today.
Compacts become branded collectibles and new designs are introduced every year. There are more than 1700 compacts in The Estée Lauder Companies archives today.
1969
Move to GM Building
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1960/1969-move-to-gm-building.jpg)
The Company moves to even more prestigious headquarters as one of the earliest tenants of the new GM Building at 767 Fifth Avenue, overlooking Central Park in New York City.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1960/1969-estee-office.jpg)
It is still global headquarters to the Company today, where Estée’s original office has been preserved.
The 60s
Social Scene
While building their beauty empire, Estée and Joseph Lauder socialize at lavish parties, dinners and charity events with leading influentials of their day including Bette Davis, Joan Crawford and Princess Grace of Monaco.
The 70s
Beauty as a lifestyle
The Company’s advertising and packaging boldly reflect the overall lifestyle of the 1970s – the standards of beauty, trends in fashion, photography and interior design, and the changing role of women.
1970
The Estée Lauder woman
Karen Graham is hired to reflect the ideal Estée Lauder woman: elegant, successful, sensual, and smart. The model will represent the brand for the next 15 years in luxury advertising campaigns.
![The Estee Lauder Woman](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1970/1970-the-estee-lauder-woman.jpg)
The 70s
Holiday Collections
Vivid patterns are carried throughout packaging and displays of Estée Lauder Holiday Collections. Patterns are inspired by interior design elements like fine fabrics and floor tiles, as well as nature.
Holiday Collection
TV commercial
Holiday Collection TV commercial
The Estée Lauder brand created themed Holiday Collections with new patterns every year, advertised through special Gift with Purchase offers.
1972
The next generation
Leonard Lauder displays strong leadership skills and assumes the role of President. The growing Lauder family vacations together in Palm Beach (l-r): Joe, William, Ronald, Aerin, Jo Carole, Gary, Evelyn, Leonard and Estée.
1977
A citizen of the world
Estée is recognized for building a successful influential company from humble beginnings. Receiving the French Legion of Honor is a definite high point in her life.
![A Citizen of the World](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1970/1977-a-citizen-of-the-world.jpg)
1979
The revolution of science
Prescriptives distinguishes itself with scientific precision and custom blending for individualized skincare and makeup products. Ronald Lauder is instrumental in launching this revolutionary brand with its concept of customization.
The 80s
Celebrating Success
New product launches and store openings become major news events. Estée publishes her autobiography and is recognized for her great influence on the beauty business.
1982
A driving force
Leonard A. Lauder assumes the role of Chief Executive Officer of the Company 10 years after being named President. Estée says, “Leonard sets the Estée Lauder pace.”
![Leonard Lauder](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1980/1980-leonard-a-driving-force.jpg)
1983
Joseph H. Lauder passes away
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1980/1983-joseph-and-estee-lauder.jpg)
Estée’s beloved husband and partner Joseph passes away. For years he controlled financial matters, manufacturing operations and the Lauder Foundation.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1980/1983-joseph-lauder.jpg)
Sons Leonard and Ronald establish the Joseph H. Lauder Institute for Management & International Studies at the University of Pennsylvania.
1985
In her own words
Estée relates her life and start of the Company in “Estée: A Success Story,” dedicated “To Joe, my love, my life, my perfect balance.”
![Estee Success Story](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1980/1985-estee-success-story-v2.jpg)
1986
William P. Lauder joins
the Company
William, Leonard and Evelyn’s son – Estée and Joe’s grandson – becomes a regional Marketing Director for Clinique U.S.A. in New York. He will continue his family’s strong leadership into the future.
![William P Lauder Joins the Company](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1980/1986-william-p-lauder-joins-the-company-v2.jpg)
1986
Advanced skincare
for men
A team of scientists, researchers and skincare specialists create Aramis’ Lab Series Skincare for Men, using modern technology, advanced ingredients and the latest research on men’s physiological and lifestyle needs.
1989
Honoring her heritage
Estée pays tribute to her mother’s Hungarian heritage by opening the Company’s first-ever freestanding store in Budapest. Estée’s appearance at the historic ribbon-cutting ceremony is captured on video.
![Honoring her Heritage](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1980/1989-honoring-her-heritage.jpg)
1989
People Who Made
a Difference
Estée is added to the Wall Street Journal’s list of business influencers of the century – among giants like Carnegie, Rockefeller, Ford, and Disney – a few years after the Company surpasses $1 billion in annual sales.
![The Wall Street Journal](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1980/1989-people-who-made-the-difference-v2.jpg)
The 90s
Building Our Portfolio
Brand acquisitions and licensing agreements contribute to explosive growth as the Company transforms from a family-owned business to a publicly-traded, family-controlled organization. Estée’s granddaughters join the Company.
1992
Aerin Lauder joins
the Company
Aerin Lauder, daughter of Ronald and Jo Carole, granddaughter of Estée and Joseph, joins as a member of the Prescriptives marketing team, ultimately becoming Style and Image Director for the Estée Lauder brand.
![Aerin Lauder](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1990/1992-aerin-enter-office.jpg)
1992
Breast Cancer Awareness
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1990/1992-breast-cancer-awareness-letter.jpg)
A breast cancer survivor herself, Evelyn Lauder and SELF Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief Alexandra Penney create the now-ubiquitous Pink Ribbon.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1990/1992-breast-cancer-awareness-2.jpg)
Evelyn launches the Company’s Breast Cancer Awareness (BCA) Campaign and establishes the Breast Cancer Research Foundation in 1993.
1993
Launching in China
The Estée Lauder and Clinique brands launch in the Isetan department stores in Shanghai. Chinese women’s beauty routines include on average seven products in the morning and another seven at night.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1990/1993-launching-in-chine.jpg)
1993
Fragrance licensing begins
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1990/1993-fragrance-tommy_360x390.jpg)
The Company’s bold new fragrance licensing division signs its first agreement with fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger for global distribution.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1990/1993-fashion-inspried-2.jpg)
Donna Karan New York and DKNY fragrances and luxury body products reflect the quality, style and innovation associated with Donna Karan.
1995
The Estée Lauder Companies goes public
The Lauder family celebrates going public on the New York Stock Exchange on November 17, at $26.00 a share ($6.50 post-splits). By day’s end the stock sees a 33% increase.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1990/1995-estee-goes-public.jpg)
1996
Online pioneers
Under William Lauder’s leadership and ahead of the curve, the Company launches its first e-commerce sites for Clinique and Bobbi Brown. The ELC Online division for all brands is created in 1999.
![Online](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1990/1996-online.jpg)
1996
Jane Lauder joins the Company
Jane Lauder, daughter of Ronald and Jo Carole, joins Clinique. As of 2020, Jane is Executive Vice President, Enterprise Marketing and Chief Data Officer, The Estée Lauder Companies.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/1990/1996-jane-lauder.jpg)
The 2000s
Leadership Transition
Leadership of the business transitions to William Lauder, and is then shared with Fabrizio Freda — brought in to fortify operations and provide strategic direction as the public company evolves.
2004
Estée Lauder passes away
Estée Lauder believed that every woman can be beautiful. By the time she passes away at the age of 95, this simple notion has changed the face of the beauty business.
Estée’s legacy includes products and brands she invented, and a culture of quality, style and unsurpassed customer service that has made the Estée Lauder Companies the global cosmetics leader it is today.
2004
Third generation of family leadership
William Lauder becomes CEO, championing areas like digital commerce, citizenship and continuous learning. Years later he designs and teaches a course for MBA students on decision-making in leadership.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/2000/2004-third-generation.jpg)
2005
Designer beauty
Designer Tom Ford updates an Estée Lauder classic with Youth-Dew Amber Nude and the Company signs with him to develop and distribute fragrances and cosmetics under the Tom Ford Beauty brand.
2008
A strategic hire
Fabrizio Freda is hired as President and Chief Operating Officer. The strategically-focused, financially-disciplined leader brings a wealth of experience in the consumer products arena. He will be named CEO in 2009.
![William P. Lauder and Fabrizio Freda](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/2000/2008-strategic-hire.jpg)
2009
Publicly traded and
family controlled
William Lauder becomes Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board; Aerin Lauder joined the Board of Directors in 2004, and Jane Lauder in 2009, keeping the family at the heart of the Company.
![Jane, William, Aerin Lauder](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/2000/2009-publicly-traded.jpg)
The 2010s
The global house of prestige beauty
The Estée Lauder Companies is the only company focused solely on prestige makeup, skin care, fragrance and hair care with a diverse portfolio of 25+ exceptional brands.
2010
The Company
goes Hollywood
The Company acquires Hollywood-based Smashbox, founded by the great grandsons of makeup legend Max Factor, and born out of a photo studio where photographers, celebrities and makeup artists converge.
![Smashbox Primer](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/2010/2010-company-goes-hollywood.jpg)
2010
Breakthrough
Technology
Clinique continues to innovate with Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector — a breakthrough product that rivals a prescription for treating uneven skin tone. It quickly becomes the brand’s bestselling product.
![Clinique Dark Spot Corrector](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/2010/2010-breakthrough.jpg)
2011
Evelyn Lauder leaves a legacy
A visionary and true leader, Evelyn Lauder passes away from complications of non-genetic ovarian cancer. She was perhaps best known to the public for her work in bringing global awareness to women’s health.
2011
High-end
fragrance licenses
Selective and strategic licensing agreements with luxury brands bring in fashion designers such as Ermenegildo Zegna, world-renowned for its contemporary sophistication, Italian elegance and quality.
![Zegna ad](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/2010/2011-zegna-product.jpg)
2012
Effortless Beauty
Aerin Lauder introduces AERIN Beauty, a luxury lifestyle beauty and fragrance brand based on the premise that living beautifully should be effortless. The brand develops luxurious makeup, fragrance and body products.
![Aerin ad](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/2010/2012-effortless-beauty-v2.jpg)
2015
The face of the
modern workspace
The Company bolsters its base in London by gathering employees and education facilities under one roof at One Fitzroy — a unique workplace designed to draw in the best young new talent.
Welcome to
One Fitzroy
Step inside
The new UK regional headquarters for The Estée Lauder Companies sets the benchmark for style and synergy with innovative workspaces in what is called the United Kingdom’s “most glamorous office.”
2017
A Campaign Milestone
After 25 years, with more than $70 million raised to advance pioneering research, education and medical services, The Breast Cancer Campaign updated its name by removing the word “Awareness,” and renewing its pledge to create a breast cancer-free world.
The Breast Cancer Campaign’s 25th Anniversary
Video excerpt from the documentary film Unraveling the Pink Ribbon: Creating a Breast Cancer-Free World
![Breast Cancer Campaign](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/2010/2017-breast-cancer-campaign.jpg)
2019
High-Performance Skin Care
The company completes its acquisition of Dr. Jart+, a Seoul-based, global skin care company. Best known for its high-quality, on-trend skin care collections such as Cicapair and Ceramidin, the brand is renowned for its outstanding and fast-moving innovation pipeline and rapid speed-to-market capabilities.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/2010/key-moments-2019-drjart.jpg)
2020
Milestone Climate Goals
The company achieved carbon neutrality and sourced 100% renewable electricity globally for all direct operations. Building upon this achievement, the company has also met its goal to set science-based emissions reduction targets for its direct operations and value chain, positioning the company to take even more decisive action against climate change in the coming decade.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/global/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/2010/key-moments-2020-climate.jpg)
2021
A Voice of Change
The Estée Lauder Companies names Amanda Gorman, inaugural poet and activist, as Global Changemaker in the first partnership of its kind for the company. As Global Changemaker, Amanda partners with ELC to create WRITING CHANGE, an initiative to close the literacy gap through access, advocacy, and artistic expression in youth. Gorman will work alongside the company and grantee organizations to promote equality and drive social impact.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/universal/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/2010/2021-a-voice-of-change.jpg)
2021
A Milestone Anniversary
The Estée Lauder Companies celebrates 75 years of business. Continuing to uphold the legacy of Estée and Joseph Lauder, the company has grown into one of the world’s leaders in prestige beauty. Decades after its inception, the company continues to delight consumers with transformative products and experiences, inspiring them to express their individual beauty.
![](https://media.elcompanies.com/images/e/estee-lauder-companies/universal/who-we-are/key-moments/content-images/2010/2021-milestone-anniversary.jpg)
The Future of Beauty
Building on a rich heritage and diverse portfolio of exceptional brands — The Estée Lauder Companies continues to push the boundaries in prestige beauty.
We invite you to return to these pages for more to come…