Bodycare targets 200 UK stores in five-year revival following collapse

Collapsed retail chain Bodycare is set to launch 25 new stores across the UK in 2026, with the first wave of openings scheduled to begin next month. The expansion forms part of an ambitious growth strategy that aims to establish 200 locations nationwide over the next five years.

The initial rollout will include six stores in Leeds, Bradford, Sheffield and Derby by July 2026, with a target of reaching 50 stores by the end of next year.

The expansion follows the collapse of the previous Bodycare business, which entered administration on 5 September 2024. The administration resulted in the closure of all 147 stores and the redundancy of the company's workforce.

In October, an investor group led by businessman Charles Denton acquired selected assets of the former retailer. Denton is known for his involvement in The Body Shop’s recent turnaround efforts.

As part of its relaunch strategy, Bodycare plans to develop a community-focused store estate that combines retail with in-store experiences.

The retailer plans to use its stores as content creation hubs for local communities. Each location will include a dedicated content production studio designed to generate localised social media content featuring staff, customers and micro-influencers.

The company also intends to position itself as an AI-led retailer by managing store operations through a proprietary AI platform designed to support operational decision-making and employee workflows.

David Stern, Managing Director at Bodycare, said: "Store experience, digital presence and community engagement - all underpinned by AI intelligence - will be central to Bodycare’s new vision, as we prepare to welcome customers back."

Founded in Lancashire in 1970, Bodycare became a well-known presence on UK high streets, particularly across northern England and the Midlands, offering beauty products, toiletries and fragrances at value price points.

In recent years, the retailer faced financial pressures stemming from rising operating costs, funding constraints and supply chain challenges.

The relaunch extends beyond physical stores, with a revamped website currently displaying the message, "we are so back", alongside a link for customer registration.