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5th September 2025
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Date 19th March 2024
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All information is accurate at the time of publication. Please check individual course pages for the most up-to-date information.
The Fashion Retail Academy has acquired the capital's leading beauty school, the London College of Beauty Therapy (LCBT). The FRA's acquisition of LCBT marks a significant expansion of our commitment to provide industry-backed vocational and academic courses combined with industry enrichment to prepare graduates for careers in industry.
LCBT was established in 1995 and has grown to become the top London provider of beauty courses for students aged 16-19 in areas such as beauty therapy, hair, makeup and aesthetics. Aligning two of the UK's top specialist education providers was a natural step for the FRA as it looks to extend its renowned blend of vocational learning and academic excellence into other sectors.
In line with the acquisition, both the FRA and LCBT will become part of a new charity, Education for Industry (EFI) Group, a structure which will provide support for both colleges' future growth and expansion. EFI Group will contain four divisions: FRA, LCBT, EFI Training and EFI Awards.
The FRA and LCBT will remain as individual colleges, with programmes and functions that will continue to operate independently of one another. Over time, best practices from both colleges will be integrated to provide students with enhanced learning resources, access to a broader industry network, and increased opportunities to gain relevant experience.
The FRA's CEO, Lee Lucas, will become CEO of EFI Group and both colleges. He said:
"I could not be more delighted to welcome LCBT into the FRA family. This strategic acquisition reflects the dedication of both colleges to offer a comprehensive and cutting edge education that prepares our graduates for success in the dynamic worlds of fashion, retail and beauty. Together, we will continue to elevate creativity, innovation, and excellence across fashion, beauty and more new sectors, to empower the next generation of industry leaders."
The move comes at a time of growth for the Fashion Retail Academy, as it prepares to move to a new campus in September 2024. Electra House on Moorgate, close to London Liverpool Street Station, will be double the size of the current campus and will have a range of new facilities including a design wing and photography studio.
LCBT will stay in its enviable location close to Oxford Circus, where it operates a popular training salon.
For more information about London College of Beauty Therapy, please visit www.lcbt.co.uk
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