After establishing itself as a top local brand in the Philippines, especially among celebrities and influential figures, Belo is on the brink of going global. Dr. Vicki Belo, renowned celebrity doctor and founder of Belo Medical Group, has entered into a significant partnership with global investment firm Ares Management, setting the stage for the potential expansion of her beauty clinic empire beyond the Philippines.
According to Insider Info, the "superstar deal" was finalized in July with New York-listed Ares Management where it acquired a majority stake in Belo Medical Group. While Dr. Belo will retain a minority position, she will gradually sell up to 70% of the business to Ares over the next two years. Currently, her husband, Dr. Hayden Kho, serves as the company's Managing Director.
ICYDK, Ares Management is a global investment powerhouse listed on the New York Stock Exchange, managing over $420 billion in assets as stated in their website. As one of the world's leading alternative investment managers, the firm has a strong track record of strategic investments in the beauty and healthcare sectors.
Ares Management’s investment in Belo Medical Group is valued at under P20 billion. This shows strong confidence in Belo’s established brand and loyal customer base and underscores Belo Medical Group’s potential to become a significant player in the global beauty industry. Dr. Belo also runs a successful beauty retail business that operates independently from her clinics.
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Belo Medical Group Going Global?
Soo, what exactly does this mean? For Belo Medical Group, this partnership signals a leap from a trusted local brand to a potential player on the international stage, setting up opportunities to expand its beauty services beyond the country.
This partnership could also mean potential collaborations with Ares’ other beauty investments, such as LaserAway in the US and Lily & Beauty in China, which may provide synergy and additional avenues for expansion.
For the Filipino market, this move may bring even more advanced treatments and cutting-edge wellness solutions. If the Belo brand expands internationally, it would mark a step for a Filipino-founded beauty empire competing globally. Customers outside the Philippines might soon experience Belo's brand of beauty and wellness as the company eyes potential markets overseas.
Though the majority stake is transitioning, Dr. Belo will maintain a key role in guiding the company's direction and ethos, ensuring her vision continues to shape Belo Medical Group.
