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

The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. (NYSE:EL) is included among the 13 Best Defensive Dividend Stocks for 2025.

On March 5, The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. (NYSE:EL) announced an agreement, subject to regulatory approvals, to acquire the remaining interests in Forest Essentials, an Indian beauty brand rooted in the science of modern Luxurious Ayurveda. The move builds on an 18-year partnership between the two companies. It also reflects The Estée Lauder Companies’ long-term commitment to supporting the brand’s growth and expanding its reach to consumers worldwide.

The company said the decision reflects confidence in Forest Essentials’ brand strength, vertically integrated operations, and sustainability approach. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of calendar year 2026. The Estée Lauder Companies first invested in Forest Essentials in 2008 and increased its stake to 49% in 2020.

Forest Essentials, which was founded in 2000 by Mira Kulkarni, has positioned itself as a leading prestige skincare name in India over time by combining traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern luxury beauty products. Today, it operates nearly 200 retail stores. The business is expected to generate low double-digit sales growth, which would further strengthen India’s role as an emerging market for The Estée Lauder Companies after the acquisition.

The brand will continue to be headquartered in New Delhi. Kulkarni will remain in leadership alongside Executive Director Samrath Bedi. The company plans to maintain its integrated approach, which includes Ayurveda-based research, local sourcing of ingredients, and in-house manufacturing.

Through its partnership with The Estée Lauder Companies, Forest Essentials intends to expand its presence globally while preserving its Ayurvedic heritage and product standards.

The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. (NYSE:EL) manufactures, markets, and sells skin care, makeup, fragrance, and hair care products. Its offerings span several categories, including skin care, makeup, fragrance, hair care, and others. The company sells its products in about 150 countries and territories under multiple brand names.