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Great ideas don’t always come from the heart of the city. For Leandros Karakatsanis, his vision for Dust+Cream began in Kalamata, far from the hustle of Greece’s urban centers.
Dust+Cream became a beacon for affordable, high-quality cosmetics at a time when Greek consumers needed it most. It wasn’t just about beauty; it was about resilience. But this wasn’t Leandros’ first rodeo. His entrepreneurial journey began in 2000 when he founded Cream Team, which grew from a small venture into a powerhouse in the Greek beauty market. Dust+Cream, now with 85 stores across Greece and Cyprus, and 660 employees, is the next chapter in his story—one that’s set to expand into the Balkans and beyond. Every step of this growth reflects Leandros’ skill in navigating crises and his knack for creating deep, meaningful relationships with franchisees and partners.
What’s his secret? A franchise model built on trust, sustainability, and profit. Leandros ensured that Dust+Cream’s growth wasn’t just fast—it was built to last. With 56 franchise-owned stores, his approach to business is simple: create value for everyone involved. This dedication to mutual success has made Dust+Cream a cornerstone of the beauty industry in Greece.
Leandros Karakatsanis proves that with a deep understanding of the market and an eye for opportunity, a small-town brand can become a national sensation—and soon, an international success. Dust+Cream isn’t just a cosmetics brand; under Leandros’ leadership, it’s a symbol of opportunity, resilience, and accessible beauty for all.
Programs
Year Founded
2012
Year Selected
2018
Stage
Team Size
101-250
Total Capital Raised
Retail & Consumer Tech