Eric Malka
Co-Founder
Managing Partner
Our Founders'
Story
A Shared Passion For Natural Health
Myriam and Eric met in Miami, united by their love for natural health. Myriam, with a spa industry background, wanted to start her own business. Eric, a seasoned entrepreneur, had just experienced a major setback. Together, they nurtured their entrepreneurial spirit.
The Move to New York and the Birth of a Brand
Seeking new opportunities, they moved to New York City in 1995. Myriam studied Herbology, Eastern medicine, and aromatherapy, while Eric joined a small company distributing English shaving products for men. In their apartment's small kitchen, Myriam created a special oil for Eric to use before shaving. The next morning, Eric told Myriam: "That was the best shave of my life."
In a burst of couple’s creativity, a new shaving brand was born. They sold their car to start the business, renting a tiny shop on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, designed by Myriam. In the fall of 1996, they opened for business with the sign outside reading The Art of Shaving.
Pioneering Green Chemistry
Myriam, an early pioneer of green chemistry, selected high-quality plant-based ingredients and pure essential oils for their products, avoiding harsh chemicals. Eric led the company’s strong business growth. Within ten years, The Art of Shaving became America's leading upscale men’s grooming brand, catching Gillette's attention. Gillette, part of Procter & Gamble (P&G), acquired their company in 2009. They stayed on for two years to help guide the brand.
Founding Strategic Brand Investments
In 2014, Myriam and Eric co-founded Strategic Brand Investments (SBI), an investment fund specialized in providing tools, mentorship, and resources to early-stage business founders. For them, being angel investors means fostering collaboration, nurturing innovation, and supporting tomorrow's entrepreneurs.
Myriam Zaoui Malka
Co-Founder
General Partner
Janette Barredo
Executive Director