OPI (Odontorium Products Inc.) is the world’s leading professional nail care brand, currently operating as a division of the Wella Company. Founded in 1981, the company transformed from a dental supply business into a global beauty powerhouse known for its high-quality formulas, iconic color names, and trend-setting approach to nail lacquer.
Core Business and Products
OPI produces a comprehensive line of professional nail, hand, and foot care products available in over 100 countries.
Nail Lacquers:
Heavily-pigmented, long-lasting, and chip-resistant polishes known for creative names like “I’m Not Really a Waitress”.
Specialized Systems:
Infinite Shine:
A three-step gel-like lacquer system including a base coat, lacquer, and top coat for a long-lasting manicure.
GELement™:
An at-home gel polish line featuring iconic OPI hues.
xPRESS/ON:
A line of press-on nails for quick application.
Care and Treatments:
The product range includes quick-dry formulas (RapiDry™), cuticle care, nail strengtheners, removers, and professional tools such as files and acrylics.
Professional Services:
OPI serves both at-home consumers and professional nail technicians, providing salon-grade devices and finishing products.
Corporate History and Ownership
Founding (1981):
Hungarian emigrant George Schaeffer purchased a dental supply company called Odontorium Products Inc. in North Hollywood, California.
Shift to Beauty (1989):
Along with co-founder Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, the company began marketing nail lacquers, moving away from dental supplies.
Acquisitions:
The company was sold to Coty Inc. in 2010.
In 2020, it became a subsidiary of the Wella Company after a majority stake in Wella (including OPI) was acquired by KKR from Coty.
Brand Vision and Values
OPI emphasizes the empowering nature of color, with a vision to help individuals express their strength and potential. The brand maintains a strong focus on industry safety and innovation. Additionally, the company engages in corporate social responsibility by raising funds and awareness for various charities through retail partnerships.