New Delhi: In a strategic move, Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), a leading consumer goods giant in India, announced the sale of its popular water purification brand, Pureit, to A. O. Smith Corporation, a global leader in water technology. The deal, valued at ₹601 crore (approximately $72 million), is expected to close by the end of 2024.
This move aligns with HUL’s plan to focus on its core categories, according to Rohit Jawa, CEO & Managing Director of HUL. “Pureit has provided essential water purification solutions to millions of loyal consumers in India,” Jawa said in a statement. “We are confident that the brand will continue to thrive under the ownership of A. O. Smith.”
A. O. Smith, with its established presence in the water technology sector, is poised to benefit significantly from this acquisition. “The Pureit brand is known for its innovative products, strong brand recognition, and commitment to customer service,” said Parag Kulkarni, president of A. O. Smith India Water Products. “This perfectly complements A. O. Smith’s existing strengths in terms of geographic reach and distribution channels.”
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Kulkarni further highlighted the expertise of the Pureit team, stating, “Their deep understanding of consumer needs and water treatment knowledge will be a valuable asset to A. O. Smith in India. We look forward to welcoming the Pureit team to the A. O. Smith family.”
While the transaction awaits customary closing procedures, HUL will continue managing the Pureit business until the handover is complete. This move is expected to streamline HUL’s operations and allow them to dedicate resources to their core business segments. For A. O. Smith, acquiring Pureit signifies a strategic expansion in the Indian water purification market, leveraging a trusted brand and a skilled workforce.
