The Body Shop to close half of UK stores, cut 40% of London HQ jobs

The Body Shop is likely to shut nearly half of its stores in the UK, along with slashing 40% of roles at its London headquarters, leaving around 400 full-time employees in the company’s workforce.

Confirming earlier reports by Sky News, administrators disclosed that “more than half” of the 198 outlets will face closure.

This announcement comes hot on the heels of the retailer’s recent plunge into administration, placing over 2,000 jobs in jeopardy.

The British cosmetic and skin care company has already closed seven of its stores immediately on Tuesday at prominent locations such as Surrey Quays, Oxford Street Bond Street, Canary Wharf, Cheapside, Nuneaton, Ashford Town Centre, and Bristol Queens Road.

The Body Shop, known for its ethical stance and range of skincare and haircare products, currently operates around 200 outlets across the UK. However, administrators overseeing the company’s restructuring have deemed its existing store portfolio unsustainable after years of financial losses.

This wave of closures follows the recent divestment of The Body Shop’s operations in mainland Europe and parts of Asia, a move aimed at streamlining the business and supporting its long-term sustainability.

While the precise timeline for further closures and job losses remains undisclosed, the restructuring also entails the discontinuation of The Body Shop ambassador programme, where individuals sell products for a commission.

The brand’s global franchise partners are expected to remain unaffected by these changes.

The Body Shop was founded in 1976 by Anita Roddick with a commitment to ethical practices and environmental sustainability.

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