Apparel Group to open 25 Forest Essentials stores in the GCC within 5 years

UAE-based retail conglomerate Apparel Group has announced its strategic partnership with Indian luxury ayurvedic brand Forest Essentials. As part of this partnership Apparel Group plans to open 25 Forest Essentials stores in the GCC within five years, alongside the launch of the brand website and marketplaces.

Commenting on the partnership Neeraj Teckchandani, CEO of Apparel Group 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.”

In April Forest Essentials will open its first standalone store in Dubai Hills. The 1,000-sqft store will showcase the brand’s complete range of skincare, haircare and body care products along with an exquisite range of gift boxes. Six more stores will open across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait within a year.

“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,” added Samrath Bedi, Executive Director at Forest Essentials.