FMCG major Reckitt Benckiser is adding new shine to its India strategy. With the completion of the global takeover of Boots, the Indian arm of the British MNC is all set to introduce a clutch of power brands from its global stable and continue with the JV arrangement that Boots Healthcare had with Nicholas Piramal.

It is also looking at forging retail JVs to manage its portfolio expansion. Chander M Sethi, chairman & MD, Reckitt Benckiser India, said “One of my priorities is to evaluate the best option for Reckitt Benckiser (post-acquisition of Boots). Part of the (takeover) deal is the joint venture management in India which will continue. Reckitt Benckiser globally owns more brands and there is a JV selling those brands.

So the acquisition will play out in India as well. Reckitt Benckiser’s focus is on the brands and we would build whatever brand properties that we own.” Prior to the acquisition of Boots, Reckitt Benckiser itself had an arrangement with the Nicholas Piramal group which was subsequently dissolved. Mr Sethi hinted at the possibility of getting into sale or retail JVs to manage the large stable of brands available to the company post-Boots takeover.

(The Economic Times)