UAE-based retail conglomerate Apparel Group is planning to open 25 stores of Indian luxury ayurvedic brand Forest Essentials in the GCC within five years as part of its strategic partnership with the company.
The group will also launch the brand’s website and marketplaces.
CEO of Apparel Group, Neeraj Teckchandani, said: “We are confident that our partnership with Forest Essentials will enhance their presence in the GCC region providing a new level of access to their luxurious ayurvedic products.
“By leveraging our extensive retail network and expertise in the market, we aim to support Forest Essentials in solidifying its commercial status on a global scale.”
Next month. Forest Essentials will open its first standalone store in Dubai Hills. The 1,000 square-feet store will feature the brand’s complete range of skincare, haircare and body care products.
Later on, six more stores will open across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
Forest Essentials is an Indian cosmetics, skincare and perfume company, founded in 2000 by Mira Kulkarni in New Delhi.
Executive director at Forest Essentials, Samrath Bedi, said: “The beauty industry is integral to the GCC with a diverse range of everyday essentials, luxury goods and personal services.
“Such demand and innovation have put the beauty sector at the heart of the GCC economy, while also establishing a cultural footprint. The raised awareness around human rights and climate change has led consumers to be more selective and demanding of business practices by prioritising brands that value transparency and are purpose-led in their messaging and authenticity. At Forest Essentials, we have always pioneered such values and thus foraying into the GCC market starting with Dubai works well with what our brand stands for.”
According to a report by Market Watch, the Middle East is the second largest market for ayurvedic items globally, accounting for about five per cent market share.
