The Body Shop returns to profit under new ownership

The Body Shop has delivered a profit under its new ownership, after being rescued from administration three months ago. 

CEO Charles Denton shared news of the profitability with employees in a Christmas message, seen by The Guardian.

He told workers The Body Shop was "back for good" after making a £2 million profit during its first 100 days under its new ownership. Sales hit £28 million over the same period.

In his final note to staff before Christmas, Denton said: "I am so thrilled at how we are ending the year. Storm Darragh may have tried its worst, but we weathered it and some."

Denton revealed the high street chain had ended last week 17% ahead of internal sales forecasts, adding "throw whatever you like at us, and we’ll come bouncing back … back for good and last month … back in profit baby!"

However, one source familiar with The Body Shop’s operations cautioned against reading too much into its return to profit, telling The Guardian that the company was now a smaller operation and that revenues could have been boosted by clearing stock and offering significant discounts.

The Body Shop was founded in 1976 by Dame Anita Roddick, originally trading out of a small shop in Brighton and later scaling to over 1,900 stores in 75 countries.

It entered administration back in February, resulting in the closure of 82 stores and 489 job cuts across the UK.

The business was rescued from administration by a consortium led by British tycoon Mike Jatania in September, with the remaining 113 stores continuing to trade.

Under its new leadership, The Body Shop's head office functions, which previously operated out of two separate locations in West Sussex and London, combined and recently moved to a new head office to Brighton.