Vesper Invest made a majority investment in the French lifestyle brand Astier de Villatte, known for its ceramics and fragrance.WHO: Founded in Paris in 1996 by Benoit Astier de Villatte and Ivan Pericoli when they were students at Beaux-Arts de Paris, Astier de Villatte has since built a global following for its ceramics, which are known for historically informed shapes and a signature aesthetic of black terracotta poking out from hand-applied white glaze. In 2016, the company expanded into fragrance, working with perfumer Dominique Ropion. Located on rue Saint-Honoré in a historic boutique, the brand has a second Paris store and recently opened flagship stores in South Korea and Milan, with a new space in Tokyo in the works.Founded in 2018, Paris-based Vesper Invest is headed by Pierre-Guillaume Véron, a former investment banker from Lazard and Audacia. The private equity firm specializes in long-term development of innovative companies in the real economy that are profitable, have strong growth potential, and significant strategic value. They focus on fostering sustainable growth and strategic advancements in the companies they invest in, ensuring lasting impact and value. Previous investments include auction house Drouot and the 200-year-old chocolatier Debauve et Gallais.IN THEIR OWN WORDS: "The scent sector is a promising growth area for Astier de Villatte.