Reliance Retail to Introduce German Cosmetic Brand 'essence' to Indian Consumers

Reliance Retail has entered an exclusive distribution agreement with Germany-based cosnova Beauty to introduce the makeup brand essence to India, as per the news reports. The announcement was made on November 17, 2025. The companies have not shared any commercial details or a launch timeline at this stage. 

Distribution Approach 

As part of the agreement, Reliance Retail will manage the national distribution of essence products. The range will be placed across the company’s online platforms, its beauty stores, and partner retail formats. Reliance Retail will act as the official distributor for essence in India. 

Essence Background 

essence, founded in Germany in 2002, is sold in around 90 countries. According to the company, more than 80% of its products are made in Europe. The brand focuses on mass-market makeup and includes items labelled vegan and cruelty-free. The catalogue is updated twice a year, with new products added in each cycle. 

About cosnova Beauty 

cosnova Beauty is the German company behind essence and oversees its international operations. It manages product development and distribution for multiple global markets. The tie-up with Reliance Retail brings essence into India through a formal organised retail system. 

Reliance Retail’s Existing Network 

Reliance Retail operates within Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd, the group’s retail holding company. As of the end of FY25, the company ran 19,821 stores across categories such as grocery, electronics, fashion, lifestyle, and pharma. It reported a consolidated turnover of ₹3.30 lakh crore and an EBITDA of ₹25,053 crore for the same year. Its registered customer base stood at more than 369 million across physical and digital channels. 

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Conclusion 

The agreement sets up the entry of essence into India through Reliance Retail, with further updates expected closer to launch. The essence range will be included in Reliance Retail’s omnichannel network, covering e-commerce platforms and physical stores. Information on the rollout, pricing, and product placement will be shared later. 

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