Marico Limited , one of India's leading FMCG majors, has achieved significant sustainability milestones, reinforcing its position as a sector leader in ESG performance. The company announced dual A- ratings in CDP 2025 assessments alongside maintaining its 'Leader' status with an ESG rating of 78 from NSE Sustainability Ratings Analytics Limited.

CDP Assessment Achievements

Marico delivered a strong performance in CDP 2025 assessments, marking a major step forward in its global sustainability journey with dual A- ratings:

NSE ESG Rating Performance

NSE Sustainability, a SEBI-registered ESG Rating Provider, independently assessed Marico's performance across Environmental, Social, and Governance parameters for fiscal year 2025:

Comprehensive ESG Improvements

Marico has demonstrated significant improvements across multiple ESG rating platforms. The company achieved a 15-point jump in the S&P CSA score from 64 to 79, an ESG risk rating of 18.80 by Sustainalytics positioning it among the lowest risk-rated FMCG companies globally, and sustained the AA rating with MSCI.

Sustainability Targets and Progress

Marico has established bold ESG targets with measurable progress across multiple areas:

Commenting on the recognition, Amit Bhasin, Chief Legal Officer Group General Counsel and Secretary, CSR Committee, stated that securing dual A- scores in CDP's rigorous assessments and leading the FMCG sector in NSE ESG ratings underscores the strength of Marico's sustainability strategy and unwavering commitment to embedding responsible practices across the value chain.

Strategic Sustainability Framework

Through its Responsible Sourcing Framework, Samyut, the company aims to certify 100% of its critical suppliers at Level 1 and 50% at Level 2 by 2030. These achievements reflect Marico's deep climate ambition, disciplined approach to water stewardship, and progress toward deforestation-free sourcing, demonstrating transparent and responsible commitment to building resilience and driving ESG excellence across its value chain.

Marico Limited has allotted 34,423 equity shares under its Employee Stock Option Plan 2016 (ESOP 2016) to eligible employees on December 12, 2025. This latest corporate action comes as the company's founder Harsh Mariwala continues to advocate for progressive leadership practices, including his suggestion that CEOs should change every 10-15 years.

Latest ESOP Share Allotment Details

According to the company's filing under Regulation 30 of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, Marico's Securities Committee approved the allotment through a resolution passed on December 12, 2025. The shares were allotted to eligible grantees pursuant to the exercise of stock options granted under various schemes of ESOP 2016.

Capital Structure Impact

Following this allotment, Marico's paid-up share capital has increased from 1,29,80,53,236 equity shares to 1,29,80,87,659 equity shares, each with a face value of Re. 1. The company clarified that this allotment is not material in nature, indicating it falls within normal operational parameters for employee stock option exercises.

Mariwala's Leadership Philosophy

While Marico continues its employee engagement initiatives through equity participation, founder Harsh Mariwala has been vocal about corporate governance reforms. His advocacy for CEO tenure limits of 10-15 years reflects his forward-thinking approach to leadership succession and corporate adaptability.

Mariwala, often described as a visionary leader, has consistently challenged business conventions throughout his tenure at the consumer goods company known for brands like Saffola and Parachute. His philosophy emphasizes the importance of fresh perspectives and adaptability in top leadership roles.

Employee Incentive Strategy

The implementation of ESOP 2016 demonstrates Marico's commitment to employee retention and engagement through equity participation. The plan includes cashless exercise facilities for eligible employees, making it more accessible for staff to participate in the company's growth story. This approach aligns with modern HR practices in the competitive FMCG sector, helping attract and retain top talent.

The combination of progressive leadership thinking and robust employee incentive programs positions Marico to navigate the evolving business landscape effectively. As the company continues to implement these strategic initiatives, stakeholders will be monitoring how these policies translate into long-term performance and corporate culture development.