What: Estée Lauder has acquired full ownership of Forest Essentials, strengthening its position in India’s growing prestige beauty market.

Why it is important: The move highlights how international companies are leveraging local expertise to capture emerging market opportunities in premium beauty.

Estée Lauder’s acquisition of Forest Essentials marks a significant step in the company’s strategy to expand its presence in India’s rapidly growing prestige beauty market. By taking full ownership of the luxury ayurvedic brand, Estée Lauder is not only deepening its commitment to the Indian market but also capitalising on the rising demand for premium beauty products among Indian consumers. This move demonstrates the value global beauty conglomerates place on integrating local brands with strong heritage and expertise into their portfolios, allowing them to better connect with culturally attuned consumers. The acquisition also signals intensifying competition among international beauty giants, all seeking to secure a foothold in India’s lucrative beauty and personal care sector. As consumer preferences shift toward high-end, authentic, and locally relevant offerings, Estée Lauder’s strategic investment positions it to benefit from long-term growth in the region.

IADS Notes: Estée Lauder’s full acquisition of Forest Essentials exemplifies the ongoing trend of global beauty conglomerates expanding in high-growth markets, as seen with L’Oréal’s $383 million investment in an Indian beauty tech hub (Inside Retail, January 2026), which highlights India’s growing role as a centre for retail innovation and international competition. The competitive landscape is further reflected in the SM Group’s expansion in experiential and wellness-focused beauty retail across Asia (Retail News, September 2025), emphasising the importance of local adaptation. Ulta Beauty’s acquisition of Space NK (The Robin Report, July 2025) demonstrates how global retailers are leveraging established premium brands for international growth. Additionally, Vogue Business (March 2025) stressed the necessity for brands to integrate local expertise and cultural authenticity to succeed in India’s evolving luxury market. Together, these developments underscore the strategic significance of India for global beauty players and the increasing demand for premium, culturally resonant offerings.

Estée Lauder buys full stake in Forest Essentials, deepens India bet as prestige beauty demand rises