Colorbar Cosmetics, one of India’s oldest homegrown beauty brands, is gearing up for a public debut in early 2027. With a strong focus on innovation, store expansion, and international ambitions, the company aims to double its revenue to over ₹1,000 crore ($117 million) in FY25 — a major leap that positions it firmly in the league of top Indian cosmetic players.
Founded two decades ago by Samir Modi, Colorbar has steadily grown from a domestic makeup brand into a name that’s competing with both new-age Indian startups like Sugar Cosmetics and MyGlamm, and global giants such as MAC and Bobbi Brown.
Credits: Reuters
Riding the Luxury Wave Amid Slowdowns
While many consumer-focused brands have faced slower sales due to India’s rising cost of living, Colorbar has bucked the trend by targeting affluent consumers — a segment that continues to splurge on premium beauty and skincare products.
“Even as mass-market demand tightens, affluent Indians are still investing in luxury, comfort, and self-care,” said Modi in an interview with Reuters. “Colorbar is benefitting from this shift, and we’re doubling down on that market.”
The brand plans to continue wooing this demographic by introducing sleeker, upgraded packaging and revamping its in-store experiences across its 100+ outlets.
From Breakeven to Billion-Rupee Ambition
In the last financial year, Colorbar roughly broke even — a sign of careful cost control in a highly competitive space. Now, it plans to go full throttle. With a projected revenue of over ₹1,000 crore this fiscal, the brand is making aggressive moves that include:
- Launching new product lines across makeup, skincare, and fragrance
- Upgrading existing packaging to attract premium buyers
- Expanding its footprint by opening 15–20 new exclusive stores this year
- Strengthening its distribution through 1,200+ multi-brand outlets like Shoppers Stop and Lifestyle
Colorbar’s strategy signals a transition from a brand in growth mode to one preparing for market leadership and global visibility.
IPO in 2027: A Leap Toward Global Expansion
Colorbar’s founder has confirmed plans to take the company public in early 2027. The expected valuation is between ₹2,500 crore to ₹3,500 crore. Proceeds from the IPO will be used to:
- Deepen its skincare and fragrance verticals
- Fund acquisitions — including international brands
- Accelerate global expansion, particularly in the United States and Middle East
Modi envisions a future where up to 25% of Colorbar’s revenue comes from exports within the next five years — a sharp contrast to its current India-focused earnings.
The Beauty IPO Trap: Will Colorbar Avoid It?
The road to a successful public listing is paved with cautionary tales. Competitors like Nykaa and Honasa Consumer (parent of Mamaearth) saw post-IPO stock slumps, largely due to margin pressures and intensified competition. Investors and analysts will be watching Colorbar closely to see how it balances scale with profitability.
However, the brand’s slow but steady approach — breaking even before scaling, and targeting affluent markets — could work in its favor. Unlike venture-fueled beauty startups racing for market share, Colorbar appears more methodical and brand-driven.
Credits: Money Control
Conclusion: A Veteran Brand With a Fresh Vision
As India’s beauty market heats up, Colorbar is making bold, timely moves that reflect both maturity and ambition. With design upgrades, global aspirations, and a strategic IPO roadmap, it is not just staying relevant — it’s preparing to lead.
If it plays its cards right, Colorbar could emerge as a rare example of an Indian beauty brand that not only survives post-IPO volatility but thrives on a larger global stage.
