Indian FMCG players again look for buys, in niche segments.

Indian fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) players are once again on the prowl to acquire companies, as the economy picks up. - Godrej Sara Lee can advertise product virtues: HC - Emami may join race to acquire UK"s Simple - Nestle to mull acquiring nutri biz of Speciality Foods - Rural India still finds telecom expensive: Report - Prepare for more range-trading - XLRI gets Rs 5 lakh highest offer for global summer intern Deal activity in the recession-proof FMCG sector was a bit subdued this calendar year, as well as last year. The number of reported transactions, according to research company Grant Thornton which tracks mergers and acquisitions, were 10 last year and nine this year, till November. In 2007, however, it was as high as 32. Unlike their counterparts in the international arena who have gone for multi-billion dollar deals (for instance, Kraft’s and Nestle’s reported bid for Cadbury is over $16 billion), Indian FMCG companies appear to be targeting smaller transactions to fill gaps in their product portfolios or get a needed foothold in a new segment or a new market.

GCPL: Well done.

A better reach in rural markets has helped both the soaps and hair colours businesses. - Godrej eyeing Rs 1,000 crore acquisitions globally - "Rural sales pushed growth further" - Godrej Consumer Products net jumps 167% at Rs 93 cr - High Court approves merger of two units with Godrej Consumer - Analysts" corner - Sara Lee buy to benefit Godrej Group Godrej Consumer Products’ focus on the mass segment is paying off in both the hair colours and soaps spaces as reflected in the September 2009 quarter numbers which surpassed the street’s estimates. Revenues (for continuing operations) were up a strong 25 per cent at Rs 440 crore, driven by some brisk business both in the home market and overseas.

Sara Lee buy to benefit Godrej Group.

Indian company has first right of refusal to buy partner’s stake. - Unilever to buy Sara Lee soaps for $1.88 billion - Unilever"s acquisition of Sara Lee not to "HIT" JV: Godrej - Godrej may buy some Sara Lee International assets - Godrej looks to buy some of Sara Lee"s international biz - Godrej Sara Lee: Parting ways - Godrej Consumer in talks with Sara Lee to acquire 100% in JV The proposed global sale of Sara Lee’s personal care unit to Unilever has increased the possibility of the former’s exit from its Indian joint venture (JV) with the Godrej Group. If Sara Lee does so, opine analysts, Godrej will have a distinct advantage, since an agreement gives it the first right of refusal to buy out Sara Lee’s stake. In India, Godrej Sara Lee is a 49:51 JV between Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL), which has brands like Cinthol and Godrej No 1, and Sara Lee.

Dabur alleges US firm of infringing on its trademark.

FMCG major Dabur has alleged that US-based firm Aveda, which manufactures and sells Ayurvedic cosmetic products, is infringing on the trademark of its skincare range. - Dabur accuses US firm of infringing on its trademark - Dabur appeals against "Pachmola" sale - Dabur India keen on rural penetration in UP - Marico net surges 32% to Rs 62 cr - Dabur Q2 net up 30.7% - No child's play In its petition before the Delhi High Court, Dabur alleged that the US-based firm is infringing on the trademark of its skincare range Uveda, which is also based on the Ayurveda therapy. During the proceedings, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi alleged that Aveda, which has launched its product in India, is trying to ride on the popularity of its range and sought an injunction from the court against the US-based firm.