The Body Shop has been bought by Lloyds Pharmacy-owner Aurelius for £207m
The Body Shop has been sold to private equity for a valuation of £660million less than it was purchased for six years ago.
The bath and body retailer has been bought by Lloyds Pharmacy-owner Aurelius for £207million. This is a bargain price compared to the £870million Brazilian firm Natura & Co paid in 2017.
Although The Body Shop is a staple on the High Street with 250 stores in the UK, it has seen sales fall in recent months.
Buyer Aurelius pledged to ‘re-energise’ the retailer, which has fallen victim to slowing consumer demand.
Aurelius partner Tristan Nagler added: ‘We are delighted to be undertaking this acquisition of an iconic British brand, which pioneered the cruelty-free and natural ingredient movement in the health and beauty market.’
Analysts said The Body Shop struggled as its rivals also adopted ethical practices, meaning it lost its competitive edge.