Bodycare rescued by former The Body Shop CEO

An investor group led by businessman Charles Denton, known for overseeing The Body Shop’s recent turnaround, has acquired selected assets of the collapsed retailer Bodycare.

The company entered administration on 5 September, resulting in the closure of all 147 stores and the redundancy of its entire workforce.

The acquisition includes Bodycare’s brand and intellectual property, forming the foundation for a phased revival of the business. The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.

Under Denton’s leadership, the group plans to reopen between 30 and 50 stores in the first phase, expected to begin in the first half of 2026. This initial wave will focus on the North West, with the rehiring of several hundred employees anticipated.

The group will work with landlords, suppliers, and former staff to support a responsible and cost-disciplined restart, aiming to re-establish Bodycare’s presence as a provider of affordable beauty and personal care products.

Founded in Lancashire in 1970, Bodycare became a familiar name on UK high streets, particularly across the North and Midlands, offering affordable beauty products, toiletries, and fragrances.

In recent years, the retailer faced financial difficulties linked to rising costs, funding challenges, and supply chain disruptions.

Nick Holloway, Managing Director at Interpath and joint administrator, said: "We are pleased to hand Bodycare to an experienced new owner with a clear plan to restart operations. We wish the business every success in the future."

Denton, formerly CEO of luxury toiletries brand Molton Brown, played a key role in returning The Body Shop to profitability within 100 days of its administration before stepping down earlier this year.

"Bodycare is much-loved and trusted – it matters deeply to the communities it serves. We now have the mandate to bring stores and jobs back by transforming Bodycare’s rich legacy into a modern, scalable and profitable business," said Denton.