Estée Lauder (EL) Expands India Presence with Forest Essentials Acquisition

Group 1 - The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. is recognized as one of the 13 Best Defensive Dividend Stocks for 2025 [1] - On March 5, the company announced an agreement to acquire the remaining interests in Forest Essentials, an Indian beauty brand, subject to regulatory approvals [2] - This acquisition builds on an 18-year partnership and reflects the company's long-term commitment to support Forest Essentials' growth and expand its global reach [2][3] Group 2 - The decision to acquire Forest Essentials is based on confidence in the brand's strength, vertically integrated operations, and sustainability approach [3] - The transaction is expected to close in the second half of calendar year 2026, with Estée Lauder having first invested in Forest Essentials in 2008 and increased its stake to 49% in 2020 [3] - Forest Essentials, founded in 2000, has become a leading prestige skincare brand in India, operating nearly 200 retail stores and expected to generate low double-digit sales growth [4] Group 3 - The brand will remain headquartered in New Delhi, with its founder Mira Kulkarni and Executive Director Samrath Bedi continuing in leadership roles [5] - The company plans to maintain its integrated approach, focusing on Ayurveda-based research, local sourcing of ingredients, and in-house manufacturing [5] - Through the partnership with Estée Lauder, Forest Essentials aims to expand its global presence while preserving its Ayurvedic heritage and product standards [5] Group 4 - The Estée Lauder Companies manufactures and sells a variety of products including skincare, makeup, fragrance, and hair care, operating in about 150 countries and territories [6]