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India's Grasim Industries reported a first-quarter loss on Friday, as its newly-launched paint business hurt margins while it struggled to keep a lid on costs.

Indian paint manufacturers are grappling with declining customer loyalty as consumers increasingly turn to more affordable options.

In response, companies have been slashing prices in an effort to regain market share amid intensifying competition.

Grasim's paints business, launched in February 2024 under the Birla Opus brand, has dragged its margins as the company continues investing in it.

The company reported a standalone net loss of 521.2 million rupees ($6.2 million) in the three months ending June 30 compared with a profit of 3.55 billion rupees a year ago, marking its second straight quarter of losses.

The standalone numbers don't include the earnings of Grasim units UltraTech Cement and Aditya Birla Capital.

Its earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization fell to 4.18 billion rupees from 7.89 billion rupees a year ago.

Grasim, which also makes chemicals and yarn, reported a revenue growth of 11% to 68.94 billion rupees for the quarter, aided by its cellulosic fibres segment, which saw a 14% sales growth.

The chemical segment, which makes chlor-alkali, chlorine derivatives and speciality chemicals, saw a 4% revenue fall.

Its total expenses surged 19% to 70.57 billion rupees.

Rival Asian Paints reported first-quarter earnings below estimates, while Dulux Paints maker Akzo Nobel India reported a rise in profit.

Shares of Grasim were 0.7% higher after the results, trimming its year-to-date fall to 3.7%.

($1 = 83.9375 Indian rupees)