"Amway Invests $4 Million in R&D Labs, Prioritizes India as Key Market"

Direct selling giant Amway has increased its R&D investments in India, identifying the country as a top priority market. The company announced a $4 million investment to establish four R&D labs in Gurugram, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Dindigul, aimed at developing solutions in food, oral solids, beauty, and personal care.

"India is a top priority market for Amway and ranks among our leading global markets," said Rajneesh Chopra, MD of Amway India, in an interview with businessline. He explained that Amway is strategically focusing on healthy aging, fitness, weight management, and beauty to meet the evolving needs of Indian consumers. The R&D labs are a key part of this strategy.

Chopra also shared Amway's growth ambitions, noting that the company currently has 550,000 distributors and serves around 2 million consumers in India. Amway aims to reach 5 million consumers within the next five years, which could elevate India to one of its top three global markets.

Chopra highlighted the growing potential of Amway's nutrition business in India, which accounts for nearly 60% of the company’s local revenue. He cited rising lifestyle diseases and busy schedules that leave many Indians seeking nutritious solutions, especially for breakfast.

Shyam Ramakrishnan, Director of Innovation and Science for Amway India and Southeast Asia, emphasized the company's commitment to leveraging top talent from India and globally to create differentiated nutrition, food, and beauty products tailored to the Indian and Southeast Asian markets, with potential for global distribution.

Addressing past regulatory challenges, Chopra acknowledged ongoing issues with investigative agencies but reaffirmed Amway's compliance. "We believe we have always been in compliance and will continue to work through these challenges. Our commitment is to operate within the laws of every country we serve," he said.

Last year, India's Enforcement Directorate (ED) filed charges against Amway India in a money-laundering probe, accusing the company of transferring funds to overseas accounts. Amway has stated that the matter relates to an old investigation from 2011, and it continues to cooperate with authorities.

HBL