MUMBAI:  Hindustan Unilever Ltd  (HUL) is set to expand its beauty and personal care empire, acquiring a 90.5 per cent stake in Uprising Science Pvt Ltd , with the remaining 9.5 per cent to follow in two years. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has given the green light to the transaction under Section 6(2) read with Section 5(a) of the Competition Act, 2002.

HUL, a behemoth in the FMCG space, boasts a portfolio spanning home care, beauty and personal care, and food and refreshments. Its 50+ brands include household names like Lux, Surf Excel, Lakmé, Knorr, and Kwality Wall’s. With manufacturing facilities across India and a vast distribution network, the company dominates the consumer market.

Uprising Science, the target in this acquisition, specialises in beauty and personal care, particularly skincare, body care, baby care and hair care products. The acquisition is expected to strengthen HUL’s grip on the premium beauty segment, expanding its product range and market share.

The companies argued that the deal won’t shake up India’s competitive landscape. However, they acknowledged overlaps in key markets, including skincare and haircare, as well as vertical linkages such as sales through beauty salons. The strategic move aligns with HUL’s broader push into high-growth personal care categories.

With CCI’s approval in the bag, HUL is set to make further waves in the beauty business. Expect bold moves ahead.