Estée Lauder to acquire remaining stake in Forest Essentials

The deal builds on an 18-year partnership,

Estée Lauder Companies Inc. has announced it has agreed to acquire the remaining ownership stake in Indian luxury beauty brand Forest Essentials, pending regulatory approvals.

The deal builds on Estée Lauder’s long-standing partnership with the brand. The company first invested in Forest Essentials in 2008 and increased its stake to 49% in 2020. The acquisition is expected to be completed in the second half of 2026.

Founded in 2000 by entrepreneur Mira Kulkarni, Forest Essentials is known for luxury skincare products based on Ayurvedic principles. The brand operates nearly 200 standalone stores across India and is considered one of the country’s leading prestige skincare brands.

After the transaction closes, Forest Essentials will remain headquartered in New Delhi and continue to be led by Kulkarni and Executive Director Samrath Bedi.

Estée Lauder said the acquisition will strengthen its presence in India’s fast-growing prestige beauty market while expanding the global reach of the Forest Essentials brand.