India Opens Second Antitrust Probe Into
India has launched a second antitrust probe into global fragrance companies, according to a cosmetics industry review.
India's competition regulator has opened a second antitrust investigation into global fragrance companies. The move was highlighted in a weekly industry review that also covered retail expansions, financial results, and leadership appointments across the cosmetics and personal care sector.
This new probe follows earlier scrutiny of the fragrance industry. The investigation was listed among various regulatory and trade developments affecting the global market.
Retail and Financial Performance
Several major retailers reported strong financial results and expanded their beauty offerings. Ulta Beauty raised its full-year 2026 guidance after its second-quarter sales reached three billion US dollars. Target launched a new concept called Beauty Studio, introducing 90 prestige, emerging, and global brands to over 600 of its stores.
Old Navy expanded into beauty with a nationwide US rollout of its Beauty Co. line. Kohl's also raised its 2026 outlook, citing improved second-quarter margins that offset declining sales. Walmart increased its fiscal year 2027 outlook after reporting second-quarter revenue of 187.9 billion US dollars.
International Expansion and Investment
Brands continued to push into new international markets. Thirteen Lune began its international expansion with a launch in South Africa. LG H&H expanded its Dr.Groot brand across 424 Sephora stores in the United States.
Kiko Milano entered Uruguay as part of an expansion plan valued at 8.55 million euros. Investment activity remained brisk. KKR acquired the Japanese beauty platform Ci FLAVORS. Regent agreed to acquire Avon North America, a move that will bring Avon businesses back under common ownership.
Essity agreed to acquire Kenvue's feminine care business in Brazil for 284 million US dollars. In manufacturing, APS Innovation acquired cosmetics automation equipment manufacturer Irae for 24.5 billion South Korean won.
Leadership and Brand Moves
A series of leadership changes were announced across major companies. LVMH appointed Alexandre Oulès as Chief Operating Officer of its Beauty division. Coty named Soraya Benchikh as its Chief Financial Officer as the company continues a business transformation.
Vacation appointed former Not Your Mother's CEO Nelson Miranda to lead its next stage of growth. Macy's appointed Maya Dukes as Senior Vice President of Creative and Production. Johnson & Johnson named Aviva Wein as Global Vice President of Litigation.
In brand marketing, Clarins appointed actress Zhang Ziyi as the global spokesperson for its Clarins Precious luxury skincare line.
Technology and sustainability initiatives advanced. Mary Kay is accelerating its digital transformation through increased investment in e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and social commerce. Amorepacific funded research at Yonsei University to develop an 'Inner Beauty' index. Henkel's Shanghai Packaging RecycLab secured testing accreditation recognized by the European Union.
Other regulatory news included increased US-Canada tariffs, which are putting pressure on beauty supply chains and affordable cosmetics. South Korea passed landmark legislation designed to support and accelerate the growth of its K-beauty industry.
