German detergent and glue maker Henkel has sold its 51 percent stake in Henkel India to Jyothy Laboratories Ltd , a fabric whitener and detergent maker, most known for its iconic Ujala brand. Jyothy already owned 15 percent of Henkel India (via a purchase of from Tamilnadu Petroproducts earlier this year) The new acquisition will give Jyothy nearly a 66 percent stake. Henkel India employs 400 people and had sales of 70 million euros in 2010.
Henkel’s international brands Fa and Pril will be licensed to Jyothy. Henkel will maintain its presence in the Indian market with the Schwarzkopf Professional hair care business. The deal generated a one-time gain of more than 30 million euros ($42 million) for Henkel.
Media reports say Jyothy has been already talking private equity players such as Actis, Apax Partners, Bain Capital, Carlyle, Temasek and GIC to raise funds to retire the $150 million debt it had taken while buying Henkel India.
What this means
First, western companies need to recognize that M&A in India is a two way street. India’s Godrej bought Sara Lee’s business in India while UK’s Reckitt Benckiser purchased Paras Pharma recently.
Second this activity is likely to keep moving forward as India’s consumer segment continues to grow frenetically.
Third, gaps and opportunities are being created every day as both the consumer needs evolve and the provider landscape shifts. Nimble companies are likely to gain the most over the next five years.
Last updated: December 26th, 2025
