Perhaps the rise in prestige fragrance figured into The Estée Lauder Companies’ quick succession of recent luxury brand acquisitions. Le Labo was the first, followed by Rodin Olio Lusso and then Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle.

Responding to the company’s first buyout announcement, Ildiko Szalai, senior analyst-Beauty and Personal Care, Euromonitor International, said, “Estée Lauder’s acquisition of Le Labo shows the company’s intention of increasing share in the premium fragrances market, a category expected to grow by $3.3 billion in retail value sales between 2013-2018. Significant market value growth is forecast especially for Lauder’s core markets such as the U.S., UK and Russia. Le Labo has developed strong consumer interest with its clever distribution strategy as their fragrances are only available through their own outlets and luxury department stores.”

The second new addition to the beauty giant’s portfolio, luxury skincare and fragrance brand Rodin Olio Lusso, was established by stylist Linda Rodin. Olio Lusso translates to “luxury oil” and with oils spreading through the prestige skincare category, the premium product was a natural for acquisition. Fabrizio Freda, Lauder’s president and CEO, described Rodin Olio Lusso as “the ultimate ‘insider’ beauty brand.” Rodin will stay onboard.

The third acquisition, which is expected to close in January 2015, came with Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle.

“Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle represents the epitome of elegance,” said Freda.