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KUPA Inc Aquires Nailebrity and its CEO Elaine Watson
KUPA INC ACQUIRES NAILEBRITY AND ITS CEO ELAINE WATSON
(Watson Takes on New Role with Anaheim, CA-Based Brand Effective 8/1/2017)
Richard Hurter, president and CEO of Kupa Inc., has announced the acquisition of Valencia, CA-based Nailebrity. The strategic move, which includes retaining Elaine Watson as executive vice president, will help Kupa expand its presence internationally as it benefits from Watson’s global partnerships and industry expertise while strengthening its foothold in the United States as a manufacturer of innovative tools for the nail segment.
According to Hurter, “The skills Elaine has acquired along her journey can be taught to a new generation of nail professionals. Her selfless dedication, expertise and infinite connections are all reasons why I wanted to create a place for her at Kupa. I have no doubt that her insight and guidance will help Kupa grow exponentially.”
As executive vice president, Watson will focus on domestic and international sales growth. Research and development are also part of her day-to-day as she works to increase Kupa’s offerings for professionals. Drawing upon her 20-plus years in the industry as an educator, Watson will work with the Kupa education team to develop effective and pertinent information for brand partners and its social sites, including KupaTV, its YouTube channel.
Watson has worn many hats in the nail category including salon owner, celebrity nail technician, television personality/judge on “Nail’d It”, head booth judge of the internationally known Nailympia competition (a position she will retain) and most recently as entrepreneur and CEO of Nailebrity, Before launching her brand in 2015, Watson spent 10 years working as a global educator and corporate executive with an internationally known manufacturer in the industry.
“Kupa caught my eye and that of the industry with all the additions that Richard has made to the company since taking ownership,” explained Watson. “He has been branding the company, not just as an e-file company but as an incredible nail brand with successful education to support the entire nail industry…and not just the things Kupa sells. I am excited to work closely with Richard while we take the company to the next level and beyond.”
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