No, Horlicks is not originally an Indian brand. It was developed in 1873 by British-born brothers William and James Horlick in the United States. However, over time, Horlicks has become deeply integrated into Indian culture and is currently owned by Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) in India.
Horlicks Brand Details
- Founded: 1873
- Founders: William and James Horlick
- Original Headquarters: Racine, Wisconsin, USA
- Current Indian Ownership: Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL)
- Industry: Nutritional Beverages
- Key Products: Malted milk drinks, nutritional supplements
- Market Presence: Significant market share in India, especially in the health food drinks segment
About the Brand
Horlicks was initially developed as a nutritional supplement for infants and the ailing. It gained popularity among explorers and soldiers for its nourishing qualities. The brand was introduced to India during World War I, where it was consumed by British soldiers. By the early 20th century, Horlicks had become a household name in India, symbolizing health and nutrition.
Current Status
In India, Horlicks has a dominant presence in the health food drinks market. The brand offers a variety of products catering to different age groups and nutritional needs. In 2019, Unilever acquired Horlicks’ Indian business from GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), and it is now marketed under Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL).
Future Outlook
Under HUL’s ownership, Horlicks is expected to continue its focus on innovation and expanding its product range to meet the evolving health and nutritional needs of Indian consumers. The brand aims to leverage HUL’s extensive distribution network to reach a broader audience across urban and rural India.
While Horlicks originated in the United States, it has become an integral part of Indian households over the past century. Its acquisition by Hindustan Unilever Limited further cements its status as a prominent brand in India’s nutritional beverage market.
