Brands
HUL seals the deal: Uprising Science takeover gets CCI nod
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.
Brands
Samsung India elevates Aditya Babbar to lead mobile business
Exec takes charge of MX sales and marketing after Raju Pullan’s exit
NEW DELHI: Samsung India has elevated Aditya Babbar to lead its mobile phone business, following the exit of Raju Antony Pullan.
Babbar, who previously served as vice president within the mobile division, has been appointed head of sales and marketing for the MX (mobile experience) business, effective May 1. In his new role, he will oversee the company’s sales and marketing operations for smartphones and related categories in India, reporting to the executive vice president of the MX business.
A long-time Samsung executive, Babbar brings over a decade of experience within the organisation, having held multiple leadership roles across product, marketing and category management. Most recently, he led product marketing and e-commerce for the mobile division, following earlier stints as head of product and marketing and senior director roles.
His career within Samsung Electronics and its India operations has also included responsibilities for flagship devices, tablets and wearables, giving him a broad view of the company’s premium and mass-market portfolio.
Babbar succeeds Pullan, who stepped down from the role, marking a leadership transition at a time when India remains a key battleground for global smartphone makers.
The appointment signals continuity within Samsung’s leadership bench, with an internal candidate stepping up to steer one of its most critical business units in a highly competitive market.
