HUL’s strength lies in its extensive reach and distribution network, covering over 9 million retail outlets across India through a multi-tiered system of distributors and stockists. This allows their products to penetrate both urban and rural markets effectively. The company emphasizes understanding consumer needs and preferences, investing significantly in research and development to innovate and tailor products for the Indian market.
Financially, HUL demonstrates robust performance with a turnover of ₹60,680 crore in FY 2024-25. They focus on sustainable growth, aiming to increase their business while reducing environmental impact and enhancing positive social outcomes through initiatives like Project Shakti, which empowers rural women entrepreneurs. HUL’s commitment to quality, affordability, and widespread availability has solidified its leadership position in the competitive Indian FMCG landscape.
Latest News on Hindustan Unilever
Britannia names Varun Berry as its new CEO, adding to his existing responsibilities as Executive Vice Chairman and Managing Director.
Britannia Industries, a leading food company in India, has announced the appointment of Varun Berry as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO). In addition to his new role, Berry will continue to serve as the Executive Vice-Chairman and Managing Director of the company. This move is a significant development in the company’s leadership structure, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the company’s future growth and success.
Varun Berry has been associated with Britannia Industries since 2013, when he joined the company as Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. With over 38 years of experience in the industry, Berry has a proven track record of leading startups, joint ventures, and growing businesses. His experience spans across premier companies like Hindustan Unilever and PepsiCo, both in India and overseas.
Throughout his career, Berry has demonstrated his ability to lead and manage businesses successfully. His expertise and knowledge in the food industry will be invaluable to Britannia Industries as it navigates the increasingly competitive market. Berry’s appointment as CEO is a testament to his leadership skills and his ability to drive growth and innovation in the company.
Berry is a graduate in Engineering (BE Mechanical) from Punjab University, and he has also served on the boards of several leading companies. His diverse experience and skills make him an ideal candidate to lead Britannia Industries, and his continued role as Executive Vice-Chairman and Managing Director will provide stability and continuity to the company.
The appointment of Varun Berry as CEO is a significant development for Britannia Industries, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the company’s future growth and success. With his extensive experience and proven track record, Berry is well-equipped to lead the company and drive its growth and expansion in the food industry. As the company continues to evolve and adapt to changing market trends, Berry’s leadership will be crucial in navigating these challenges and capitalizing on new opportunities.
Bloomberg: India Sees Glimmers of Consumer Spending Rebound, Say Unilever and Reliance
Unilever and Reliance, two of India’s largest consumer goods companies, have reported signs of a revival in consumer demand in the country. Despite the economic slowdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, both companies have seen an uptick in sales, particularly in rural areas. This suggests that the Indian consumer is slowly starting to regain confidence, driving growth in the country’s consumer goods market.
Unilever, the maker of popular brands such as Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), reported a 4% increase in sales in the quarter ended June, driven by a strong performance in rural areas. The company’s CEO, Sanjiv Mehta, stated that the rural market had shown resilience and was driving growth, with sales increasing by 5% during the quarter. This is a positive sign for the company, as rural India accounts for a significant portion of its sales.
Reliance Industries, another major consumer goods company, also reported a strong performance in its retail business. The company’s retail arm, Reliance Retail, saw a 14% increase in revenue during the quarter, driven by a strong performance in its consumer electronics and fashion businesses. The company’s chairman, Mukesh Ambani, stated that the retail business had shown a significant recovery, driven by the easing of lockdown restrictions and the festivals season.
The revival in consumer demand is also reflected in the latest data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), which showed that consumer spending had increased by 2.5% in the quarter ended June, after a decline of 2.1% in the previous quarter. The RBI also reported that the rural economy was showing signs of improvement, with rural incomes increasing by 4.4% during the quarter.
The recovery in consumer demand is a positive sign for India’s economy, which has been struggling to regain momentum after the pandemic. The government has taken several measures to boost consumer spending, including cuts in taxes and interest rates, which seem to be having a positive impact. The revival in consumer demand is also expected to boost the growth of the consumer goods sector, which is a significant contributor to India’s GDP.
However, despite the positive signs, there are still concerns about the sustainability of the recovery. The pandemic is still a major risk, and any further outbreaks could impact consumer spending. Additionally, the economy still faces several structural challenges, including a slowdown in investment and a decline in exports. Nevertheless, the signs of a revival in consumer demand are a positive sign, and companies like Unilever and Reliance are well-positioned to benefit from the recovery.
Honasa Consumer Private Limited and Hindustan Unilever Limited have reached an agreement to resolve their dispute over a sunscreen advertisement in the Delhi High Court.
A recent advertisement by Lakme, a brand owned by Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), has sparked controversy in the Indian market. The ad, which aired on April 12, 2025, claims that an “online bestseller” sunscreen is making false claims about its Sun Protection Factor (SPF). The advertisement, dubbed the “SPF Lie Detector Test,” suggests that the competing product, which is implied to be Derma Co’s sunscreen, has a lower SPF than advertised. Specifically, the ad claims that the product says it has SPF 50 but actually provides only SPF 20.
Honasa Consumer Limited, the company behind Derma Co, has taken umbrage with HUL’s campaign, alleging that it is a “classic hit and run” tactic aimed at discrediting their product. Honasa’s counsel argued that HUL’s claims are baseless and misleading, implying that using their sunscreen could lead to skin pigmentation without providing any evidence to support this assertion. According to Honasa, HUL’s advertisement is an attempt to falsely imply that their sunscreen is ineffective and makes misleading claims.
In response to HUL’s campaign, Honasa launched its own advertisements to counter the claims made by Lakme. However, HUL has since filed a lawsuit against Honasa in the Bombay High Court, seeking to stop the company from airing its counter-ads. The lawsuit is the latest development in the escalating feud between the two companies, with each side accusing the other of making misleading claims. The controversy highlights the intense competition in the Indian sunscreen market and the importance of truthful advertising. As the case unfolds, it will be interesting to see how the court rules on the matter and what implications this will have for the advertising practices of companies in the industry.
The dispute between HUL and Honasa has significant implications for the sunscreen industry in India, where consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of the importance of sun protection. With the growing demand for sunscreen products, companies are under pressure to differentiate themselves and make compelling claims about their products. However, this must be balanced with the need for truthful advertising, and companies must be careful not to make misleading claims that could harm consumers or damage their competitors’ reputation. Ultimately, the outcome of this case will depend on the evidence presented and the court’s interpretation of the advertising laws in India.
Morgan Stanley upgrades Godrej Consumer and Hindustan Unilever, while downgrading Dabur.
Morgan Stanley has updated its ratings on several leading consumer stocks, signaling a shift in its preference towards certain staples. The brokerage has upgraded Godrej Consumer Products Ltd. to “overweight” from “equal-weight”, and Hindustan Unilever Ltd. to “equal-weight” from “underweight”. In contrast, Dabur India Ltd. has been downgraded to “underweight” from “equal-weight”. According to Morgan Stanley, the current global environment has created a framework for certain consumer staples to excel, providing an opportunity for defensive stocks to outperform.
The brokerage attributes the resilience of these consumer staples to their ability to insulate themselves from global uncertainties. In a note, Morgan Stanley emphasized that “we re-position our staples’ preferences that are insulated from any reset.” This highlights the brokerage’s confidence in the performance of these stocks, which are well-equipped to weather economic challenges.
Morgan Stanley’s revised ratings are also driven by the prospect of margin improvement in the consumer staples sector, despite an economic slowdown. The brokerage believes that opportunities should be selective and not broad-based, with a focus on specific areas that are likely to benefit from the current global landscape.
The revised ratings are seen as a strategic shift in Morgan Stanley’s preference for certain consumer staples, which are expected to provide a higher level of resilience and protection in the face of global uncertainties. The brokerage’s positive outlook on Godrej Consumer Products and Hindustan Unilever reflects its conviction that these companies are well-positioned to capitalize on the current market environment.
When can we expect HUL, Nestle India, Marico, and Dabur to release their earnings reports?
The financial year 2024-25 has come to a close, with global markets experiencing heightened volatility due to the threat of a global trade war sparked by US President Donald Trump’s imposition of tariffs on over 180 countries. India appears to be managing the crisis better than others, but the full impact of the tariffs on its economy is yet to be seen.
The performance of India’s FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods) companies is often seen as a barometer of the country’s economic health and consumer trends. As such, investors and analysts will be closely monitoring the financial results of major FMCG companies for the quarter and year ending March 31, 2025.
Some of the prominent companies in India’s FMCG space include Hindustan Unilever (HUL), Nestlé India, Marico, and Dabur. These companies will be announcing their quarterly and annual results in the coming weeks, with HUL’s board set to meet on April 24, Nestle India on April 24, Marico on May 2, and Dabur on May 7.
The results will provide insights into the companies’ performance and their potential exposure to the US tariffs, which could impact their operations and profitability in the coming financial year. Investors will be keenly watching these results to gauge the impact of the global economic uncertainty on India’s economy and consumer spending habits.
Stock Market Updates for Hindustan Unilever
Recent Updates
Hindustan Unilever Achieves Regulatory Accruals for Q1 2025, According to TipRanks Insights.
Hindustan Unilever Limited, a multinational consumer goods company, has announced that it has ensured regulatory compliance for the first quarter of 2025. The company’s compliance is in line with the guidelines set by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and other regulatory bodies.
Hindustan Unilever’s regulatory compliance ensures that the company is in compliance with all the relevant laws, rules, and regulations applicable to its business operations. This includes compliance with corporate governance norms, accounting and auditing standards, and other regulatory requirements.
The company’s compliance is overseen by its Audit Committee, which is responsible for reviewing and ensuring compliance with the company’s internal controls, financial reporting, and other regulatory requirements.
Hindustan Unilever’s regulatory compliance is essential for maintaining the trust and confidence of its stakeholders, including shareholders, investors, employees, and customers. The company’s compliance helps to ensure transparency, accountability, and good governance practices.
Additionally, the company’s compliance with regulatory requirements helps to protect its business and reputation. Regulatory non-compliance can lead to severe consequences, including fines, penalties, and even loss of licenses.
In the first quarter of 2025, Hindustan Unilever reported a revenue growth of 10% year-on-year, driven by volume growth across various product categories. The company also reported a profit growth of 12% year-on-year, driven by cost savings and efficiency initiatives.
Hindustan Unilever’s compliance with regulatory requirements is just one aspect of its commitment to governance and sustainability. The company is committed to making a positive impact on society and the environment, and has set ambitious targets to reduce its environmental impact and promote sustainable practices.
Overall, Hindustan Unilever’s regulatory compliance is essential for maintaining its reputation, building trust with stakeholders, and ensuring the long-term success of the company.
Precise dates for HUL, Nestle India, Marico, and Dabur’s earnings announcements remain unknown.
The financial year 2024-25 has concluded amidst global economic uncertainty, with US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose reciprocal tariffs on over 180 countries sparking fears of a trade war and market volatility. Despite this, India seems to be weathering the storm better than most, but the full impact of the tariffs on the economy remains to be seen. Investors and analysts will be closely monitoring the financial results of India’s leading Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) companies for the quarter and year ending March 31, 2025, as their performance is often seen as a barometer of the country’s economic health and consumption trends.
Companies such as Hindustan Unilever (HUL), Nestlé India, Marico, and Dabur will release their quarterly and annual results, providing valuable insights into how the Indian economy is faring amidst internal and external challenges. A key factor to watch is the potential impact of US tariffs on these companies’ operations and profitability, particularly as they enter the new financial year 2026.
The scheduled dates for the announcement of Q4 and FY25 results by major FMCG companies are as follows:
* Hindustan Unilever – April 25, 2025
* Nestlé India – April 28, 2025
* Marico – May 3, 2025
* Dabur – May 6, 2025
These results will provide crucial information on the FMCG sector’s performance, helping investors and analysts gauge the impact of the global economic uncertainty on India’s economy and consumption trends.
HUL’s Kwality Wall’s Golden Spoon brings the taste of authentic Indian parlours to the comfort of your own home.
Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) has launched Kwality Wall’s Golden Spoon, a new range of ice cream products that brings the flavors and convenience of a traditional Indian parlor to homes. The new range is designed to cater to the evolving tastes and preferences of Indian consumers, who are looking for a delicious and convenient dessert option at home.
Kwality Wall’s Golden Spoon is available in a variety of flavors, including classic and unique flavors such as chocolate chip cookie dough, strawberry cheesecake, and pistachio. The ice cream is made with high-quality and fresh ingredients, and is designed to be consumed straight from the packet or used as a topping for cakes, pastries, and other desserts.
The packaging of Kwality Wall’s Golden Spoon is designed to be convenient and easy to use. The ice cream comes in a compact and portable packet, making it easy to take on-the-go or to serve as a snack at home. The packet also features a built-in spoon, making it easy to scoop and serve the ice cream without any mess.
HUL claims that Kwality Wall’s Golden Spoon is a game-changer in the Indian ice cream market, as it offers a unique and convenient dessert option that is perfect for a wide range of occasions, from family gatherings and parties to casual evenings at home. The product is also targeted towards the younger generation, who are looking for a fun and delicious dessert option that is easy to enjoy on-the-go.
The launch of Kwality Wall’s Golden Spoon is part of HUL’s strategy to innovate and expand its offerings in the Indian ice cream market. The company is committed to providing high-quality and convenient dessert options that meet the evolving tastes and preferences of Indian consumers.
Consumer Goods Producers Anticipate a Lackluster Q4 Performance
The Indian fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector is expected to have a dull quarter, with some companies performing better than others. Marico Ltd reported a high single-digit revenue growth in the quarter, driven by steady growth in key segments and pricing tweaks in its domestic business. On the other hand, Dabur India Ltd’s update was disappointing, with growth expected to slow down due to delayed and truncated winters and tepid urban demand.
Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL) expected high single-digit sales growth in rupee terms, with a mid-single-digit volume growth. Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) volumes are expected to be flat in the quarter, and the company’s revenue growth is likely to be 2% year-on-year.
Nestle India Ltd is expected to perform better, with consolidated revenue growth of 5% year-on-year and domestic sales rising 5-6%. However, gross margins are expected to be under pressure due to input cost inflation and lacklustre revenue growth.
The sector’s overall performance is expected to be impacted by gloomy demand, with urban demand remaining affected by low wage growth and high inflation. Nomura Global Markets Research expects overall consumer demand/volumes in the quarter to remain unchanged from the previous quarter.
Investors will be closely watching management commentary on rural and urban demand trends, but a significant recovery in urban demand is not expected immediately. Until volumes improve and inflation softens, optimism may need to be tempered. The Nifty FMCG index has underperformed the benchmark Nifty 50 over the past six months, falling 16% compared to 11%.
HUL appoints Dr. Vivek Mittal as Executive Director, General Counsel and Company Secretary
Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) has announced the appointment of Dr. Vivek Mittal as its new Executive Director, Legal and Corporate Affairs, effective March 2025. Mittal will succeed Dev Bajpai, who has announced his early retirement. With over 25 years of experience, Mittal has worked with several reputed companies, including Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Danaher Corporation, and Lupin Limited, where he managed legal, ethics, compliance, and data privacy risks.
Mittal holds a Ph.D., LL.B, M.Com degree, and is a member of the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI). His expertise lies in building dynamic legal teams and handling high-stakes legal matters while maintaining a strong commitment to ethics and compliance. He has consistently contributed to driving strategic initiatives and ensuring legal and regulatory compliance across industries.
HUL’s CEO and Managing Director, Rohit Jawa, welcomed Mittal, stating, “Dr. Mittal has a proven track record of managing complex legal matters while upholding ethical standards and compliance. His contributions have been instrumental in driving strategic initiatives and ensuring regulatory compliance. I am confident that he will lead the HUL legal function to new heights of growth and transformation.”
Mittal’s appointment to HUL’s Management Committee is a significant development for the company, given his extensive experience and expertise in legal affairs. His leadership is expected to drive growth and transformation in the company’s legal function, ensuring compliance and unethical practices during his tenure.
Bringing harmony to the senses through our immersive ‘Chai Bansuri’ installation
Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) has unveiled a unique installation in Vijayawada, called Brooke Bond Taj Mahal ‘Chai-Bansuri’, which combines tea brewing with classical music. The installation features a specially designed tea kettle that transforms its spout into a flute, or bansuri, as steam escapes from it. As the tea brews, the steam flows through the flute, playing a rendition of Raag Hamsadhwani, a traditional Indian classical music composition.
The installation, conceived and deployed in partnership with Mindshare and Ogilvy, is set in a tranquil setting on Bhavani Island, overlooking the Krishna River. Visitors can enjoy a cup of Taj Mahal Tea at the Taj Mahal Tea House pop-up and immerse themselves in the soothing sounds of Indian classical music.
According to Shiva Krishnamurthy, Executive Director of HUL, Taj Mahal Tea is synonymous with great Indian tea and music, and the Taj Mahal Chai Bansuri is a celebration of this connection. This innovative installation aims to create an unforgettable experience by fusing the simple act of tea brewing with the beauty of classical music. The event is a unique marketing campaign for Taj Mahal Tea, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
Incorporate Hindustan Unilever, TCS, and two other undervalued stocks with a PE ratio below the industry average on your watchlist – Trade Brains
The article by Trade Brains suggests that three Indian stocks with a P/E (price-to-earnings) ratio lower than their respective industries could be worth monitoring. The stocks are:
1. Hindustan Unilever (HUL) – A fast-moving consumer goods company with a P/E ratio of 25.59, lower than the industry average of 37.13.
2. TCS (Tata Consultancy Services) – A leading IT services company with a P/E ratio of 23.63, lower than the industry average of 26.15.
3. Bajaj Finserv – A non-banking finance company with a P/E ratio of 15.24, lower than the industry average of 21.43.
4. ITC (Industries Trading Corporation) – A tobacco and hotel company with a P/E ratio of 20.91, lower than the industry average of 25.69.
These companies are considered undervalued by the market, and the low P/E ratio may indicate a potential buying opportunity. A low P/E ratio can be a result of various factors, including uncertainty in the company’s growth prospects, high debt levels, or perceived risks in the industry.
On the other hand, stocks with high P/E ratios are considered overvalued, and the ratio may indicate that the market is pricing in high growth expectations. For instance, a high-growth start-up might have a much higher P/E ratio than its more established peers in the same industry.
It is essential to conduct a thorough analysis of each company, including its financial performance, competitive position, and industry trends, before making any investment decisions. A low P/E ratio alone is not a guarantee of long-term success, but it can be an attractive feature for investors seeking undervalued companies with potential for future growth.
Rajneet Kohli, former CEO of Britannia, to lead HUL’s food division as its new head.
Rajneet Kohli, former CEO of Britannia Industries, is joining Hindustan Unilever (HUL) as the executive director of its foods and refreshment division. He will take over the role on April 7, replacing Shiva Krishnamurthy, who will be leaving the company to pursue an external opportunity. Kohli has over 30 years of experience in consumer and retail, and has previously worked with companies such as Asian Paints, Coca-Cola, and Jubilant FoodWorks.
As the new executive director, Kohli will lead HUL’s foods and refreshment division, which includes brands such as Kissan ketchup, Bru coffee, and Horlicks malt drinks. The division reported a revenue of Rs 15,292 crore in fiscal 2023-24, making it the second-largest contributor to HUL’s turnover, which stood at nearly Rs 60,000 crore.
Kohli has a strong track record of driving product innovation and digital capabilities, which will be crucial in leading HUL’s foods and refreshment division to the next phase of growth and transformation. His extensive experience in managing large foods and beverages businesses will be beneficial in navigating the competitive food and bakery segment.
HUL has made several high-profile appointments in 2023, including the appointment of Rohit Jawa as its managing director and CEO, and Harman Dhillon as executive director of its beauty and wellbeing division. With Kohli’s addition to its executive team, HUL is poised to further strengthen its position in the consumer goods market.
Prices and demand fluctuations force Nestlé to make deep cuts in its workforce to stay competitive.
Nestlé, a multinational food and beverage company, has announced plans to cut jobs in response to pressures from overcapacity and market changes. The company, which employs over 330,000 people globally, has been facing challenges in the current market scenario.
Thierry Van Basten, CEO of Nestle SA, stated that the company is making adjustments to address the current market conditions, which have led to increased competition and pressure on the company’s ability to make profits. As a result, Nestle will be axing jobs and restructuring certain business units to better align with the current market demands.
The company is also planning to focus on its core businesses, such as coffee, pet food, and infant nutrition, while reducing its presence in other areas. Nestle’s strategic review, which was announced in 2020, will lead to a streamlining of its operations and a shift towards more modern and agile businesses.
The company has not specified exactly how many jobs will be cut, but stated that it will apply both voluntary and compulsory redundancies across various countries and business units. The restructuring process is expected to be completed by the end of 2023.
Nestlé is not the only company in the food and beverage industry facing challenges. Other major companies, such as Kraft Heinz and Unilever, have also announced similar measures to adapt to the changing market landscape.
In recent years, Nestlé has faced various challenges, including changes in consumer behavior, increased competition from smaller, more agile players, and overcapacity in certain markets. The company has also faced criticism for its environmental and social impact, which has led to a shift in public perception and consumer behavior.
Efforts to address these challenges include the elimination of its word ‘Popular’ prefix from product packaging, as well as initiatives around sustainability and recycling. The company has also been working to reduce its environmental impact, including a commitment to use 100% renewable electricity by 2025.
The job cuts announced by Nestlé are a response to a combination of market pressures and internal reorganization. The company aims to restructure its operations to better compete in a rapidly changing market that is becoming increasingly challenging and competitive.
The Indian ice cream market is expected to witness a striking surge in demand this summer, with prominent brands like Amul, Mother Dairy, Havmor, and Baskin-Robbins spearheading the record-breaking sales figures.
The Indian ice cream market is set to experience a surge in demand due to the ongoing heatwave and summer season. Havmor Ice Cream, a leading player in the market, is introducing new products and scaling up production to meet the rising demand. The company is also leveraging its new state-of-the-art plant in Pune to increase production capacity.
Baskin-Robbins, another major player in the market, has seen consistent double-digit growth in India and is capitalizing on the demand surge. The company has set up a new manufacturing facility and opened over 1,000 locations in India and the SAARC region to cope with the growing demand.
The rise of quick commerce has also played a significant role in the growth of the ice cream market, with platforms like Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart providing seamless last-mile delivery. This has increased the accessibility of ice cream and has led to impulse buying, with consumers wanting to buy and consume ice cream quickly.
Industry experts are optimistic about the category’s growth potential, driven by rising disposable incomes, evolving consumer preferences, and innovation. They also expect the category to be fueled by premiumization and deeper market penetration, as well as the growth of channels like quick commerce.
However, there are also challenges ahead, such as the potential strain on production facilities and cold chain infrastructure, as well as the possibility of disruptions due to erratic weather patterns like early monsoons. Despite these challenges, the industry is expected to continue growing, with companies like Emami, Varun Beverages, and Hindustan Unilever set to benefit from the demand surge in adjacent categories such as cola, talcum powder, and cooling hair oils.
Overall, the Indian ice cream market is poised for significant growth, driven by innovation, premiumization, and the growth of quick commerce and other channels.
Leo Puri steps down as Independent Director of HUL, citing global board responsibilities.
Leo Puri, an Independent Director of Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), has announced his resignation, effective June 30, 2025. Puri has been serving on HUL’s board and has also held positions on other boards, including Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories and Fortis Healthcare. The reasons for his resignation are twofold. Firstly, he has taken on new board commitments, including a proposed appointment to the board of a global entity. Secondly, he is constrained by the overboarding criteria for Independent Directors, as per European Corporate Governance requirements.
With his resignation, Puri will cease to be the Chairperson of the Risk Management Committee, ESG Committee, and Independent Committee at HUL. He will also step down from his directorships in Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories and Fortis Healthcare. In his current role at Dr. Reddy’s, Puri chairs the Stakeholders Relationship Committee and serves on the Nomination, Governance, and Compensation Committee, as well as the Science, Technology, and Operations Committee. Additionally, he has recently been appointed as the Chairperson of Fortis Healthcare’s board.
In a letter, Puri clarified that his decision is solely based on increasing professional commitments, and there are no other material reasons for his departure. His resignation takes effect on June 30, 2025, and his responsibilities will be assumed by other directors on the board. Puri’s departure from HUL’s board marks the end of his tenure as a director, which has been marked by his active involvement in various committees and his contributions to the company’s governance and decision-making processes.
Aims to achieve a minimum 10-fold offline expansion with HUL’s backing.Let me know if you’d like me to make any further adjustments!
Minimalist, a premium beauty brand, is set to expand its offline presence aggressively after Hindustan Unilever (HUL) agrees to acquire a 90.5% stake in the company for ₹3,000 crore, pending regulatory approvals. The partnership will help Minimalist scale its retail presence from 2,000 stores to 20,000 within two years. The acquisition will also grant Minimalist access to HUL’s vast retail network, which will enable the company to leverage HUL’s on-ground team, data, and infrastructure to scale its business more efficiently.
The partnership will also aid Minimalist’s international expansion, with HUL’s global footprint providing a faster and more seamless entry into new markets. Yadav, CEO of Minimalist, noted that the company can now tap into HUL’s existing distribution channels and market insights, which will optimize its retail presence in India and abroad. Additionally, Minimalist will benefit from HUL’s global R&D centers for product innovation, clinical studies, and ingredient evaluation.
Despite the majority acquisition, Minimalist will continue to operate independently within HUL’s framework, with Yadav and his team retaining full operational control. The acquisition will not impact Minimalist’s vision and growth strategy, and the company will continue to run independently, with no changes to its operations. This partnership is seen as a strategic move for both companies, with HUL gaining a foothold in the premium beauty market, and Minimalist gaining access to the resources and expertise needed to drive its growth and expansion plans.
Murmurs from the market: ICICI Bank, HUL, and Bandhan Bank are top picks among analysts, according to Zee Business.
According to a report by Zee Business, several analysts have picked out top stocks to buy and sell in the Indian market. In their top picks, ICICI Bank, Hindustan Unilever (HUL), and Bandhan Bank have been highlighted as stocks to buy.
ICICI Bank, one of India’s largest private sector banks, has been given a “buy” rating by analysts, who believe it has the potential to outperform the broader market. The bank’s strong loan book, increasing fee income, and bancassurance business are key factors driving its growth prospects.
HUL, India’s largest fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company, has also been recommended as a “buy” by analysts, who view its stronghold on the domestic market and robust dividend yields as positives. Additionally, the company’s prospects of increasing revenue through its large distribution network and successful marketing campaigns are also expected to drive its growth.
Bandhan Bank, one of the newest private sector banks in India, has been given a “buy” rating by analysts, who see potential in its large retail deposits and fast-growing branch network. The bank’s focus on microfinance business and successful diversification strategies are also expected to drive its growth.
On the other hand, analysts have advised selling stocks such as Bajaj Finance, which they see as having high valuations and high profit and loss (P/L) account but low return on equity (ROE). They also advise selling canteen services provider, DIVIS Laboratories, which they believe has high valuations and slow sales growth.
The report also highlights the following key trends in the Indian market:
1. Positive sentiment: Analysts are optimistic about the Indian market, with a split view on the economy, but generally positive.
2. Sector rotation: The rotation from large-cap to mid-cap and small-cap stocks is expected to continue, with a focus on sectors like IT and pharmaceuticals.
3. Valuations: Analysts are concerned about high valuations in some stocks and are advising investors to be cautious.
Overall, the report provides insight into the views of analysts on the Indian market, highlighting specific stocks to buy and sell, trends to watch, and other key factors driving the market.