Dettol: Managing Brand Extensions

Abstract

This case is about the evolution of a parent brand and its subsequent extension into different product categories. Dettol as a brand has received immense trust and loyalty from consumers. Since the 1930s when Dettol was introduced in India, it has steadily created a deep entrenched position in the mind of its consumers. To achieve fast growth and leverage the strong brand equity of the Dettol, Reckitt Benckiser India Limited rolled out a number of brand extensions. Some of these extensions such as Dettol Soap and Dettol Liquid Hand Wash became a phenomenal success, while most others failed. The case discusses why some of the extensions achieve great success while others fail miserably.