US cosmetics group Estée Lauder Companies will acquire the remaining stake in Indian luxury Ayurvedic skincare brand Forest Essentials, taking full ownership as part of a partnership that began nearly two decades ago. The deal, subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to close in the second half of 2026.
Deal details and timeline
Financial terms have not been disclosed. Estée Lauder will purchase the remaining shares held by existing investors to assume complete control of the brand. Forest Essentials will continue to operate from India and retain its identity as a luxury, Ayurveda-inspired beauty house after the transaction.
Background of the partnership
The two companies first allied in 2008 when Estée Lauder made an initial investment in Forest Essentials. Over the ensuing years, the American conglomerate steadily increased its stake, becoming a major shareholder in 2020 when its holding rose to about 49%.
Industry analysts see the move as the next natural step in a long-standing collaboration and a reflection of Estée Lauder’s confidence in Forest Essentials’ brand equity and the rising global appetite for natural and Ayurvedic beauty products.
Forest Essentials: origins and market presence
Founded in 2000 by Mira Kulkarni, Forest Essentials began as a small artisanal maker of soaps and beauty formulations rooted in classical Ayurvedic recipes. It has since evolved into a premium skincare, haircare and wellness brand with an extensive retail footprint across India, presence in select international markets, and distribution through hotels and online channels.
The brand’s emphasis on natural ingredients, traditional formulations and luxury positioning has helped it build a loyal domestic customer base and gain recognition overseas.
Leadership and operations to remain India-based
Leadership continuity appears central to the acquisition strategy. Founder and managing director Mira Kulkarni is expected to remain closely involved in the company’s strategic direction, while executive director Samrath Bedi will continue in a senior role. Research, manufacturing and product development will remain based in India to preserve the brand’s heritage and authenticity.
Estée Lauder plans to combine that local stewardship with its global expertise in marketing, product innovation and distribution.
Strategic rationale: tapping India’s premium beauty boom
The acquisition underscores Estée Lauder’s intensified focus on India as a high-growth market for prestige beauty. Rising disposable incomes, a growing premium skincare segment and increasing consumer interest in natural and traditional wellness products have expanded opportunities in the country.
Full ownership will allow Estée Lauder to scale Forest Essentials across international markets using its global network, while offering the Indian brand access to larger distribution channels and marketing resources. Observers say the deal positions Estée Lauder to both deepen its presence in India and introduce Ayurvedic beauty traditions to a broader global audience.
