The iconic British cosmetics retailer, The Body Shop, known for its commitment to ethical beauty and environmental sustainability, has entered into administration. Founded in 1976 by the late Dame Anita Roddick from a single shop in Brighton, the brand has grown into a global presence, advocating against animal testing and championing natural ingredients.

This move into administration marks a significant moment in the company’s history, which spans nearly half a century of retail innovation and social activism.

FRP Advisory, tasked with managing the administration process, emphasized the goal of transforming The Body Shop into “a more nimble and financially stable UK business.” This restructuring aims to ensure the brand remains “relevant to customers and able to compete for the long term” in the rapidly evolving beauty industry. The administrators’ strategy includes substantial cost-cutting measures, particularly in property and rent expenses, hinting at possible store closures and job losses as they seek to streamline operations.

Despite the uncertainty, it seems unlikely that The Body Shop’s name will vanish from Britain’s high streets, where it has been a staple for nearly five decades. The retailer’s British operation boasts over 200 shops, a few franchises across the UK, and its headquarters in London, representing a significant footprint in the nation’s retail landscape.

The recent decision by Aurelius, the private equity firm that acquired The Body Shop for £207 million in November, to place the company into administration was driven by disappointing sales over the crucial Christmas trading period.