The Body Shop administrators have confirmed that an additional 75 stores will close, putting more than 400 jobs at risk, as it continues to restructure the retailer’s UK business.
Administrators FRP said on Thursday the decision will result in 489 employees being made redundant over the next four to six weeks.
It confirmed that 116 of The Body Shop stores across the UK will remain open, with the second wave of store closures providing “the best opportunity for long-term sustainable future for the iconic brand”.
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FRP joint administrator Tony Wright said: “In taking swift action to right-size The Body Shop UK store portfolio, we have stabilised the business and are providing the best opportunity for this iconic brand to have a long-term, sustainable future.
“The UK business continues to trade in administration, and we remain fully focused on exploring all options to take the business forward.”
The ethical beauty chain’s owner Aurelius called in administrators for the UK business earlier this month, which it said would “accelerate restructuring” of the company.
As part of its restructuring plans, FRP has axed around 40% of the retailer’s head office roles to around 400 full-time staff and closed down the business’ Ambassador programme.
It also announced the immediate closure of seven Body Shop stores, including London’s Oxford Street and Canary Wharf stores, two weeks ago.
FRP said a “reduced store footprint will coincide with a renewed focus on the brand’s products, online sales channels and wholesale strategies, bringing the brand in line with industry peers and supporting a return to financial stability”.
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