L'Oreal is one of the largest cosmetics companies in the world with revenues of over 20 billion euros in 2011. It has a portfolio of 27 brands and operates in over 130 countries. L'Oreal invests heavily in R&D, with 721 million spent in 2011 across 19 research centers globally. The company focuses on innovation through customized products developed to meet local needs and uses communication strategies like celebrity endorsements to promote its brands. It employs nearly 69,000 people and is majority owned by the Bettencourt family and Nestle.