Charles Denton Buys Bodycare Brand to Revive Retail Chain
An investor group spearheaded by Charles Denton has successfully acquired the Bodycare retail business out of administration. Denton, a figure renowned for his previous leadership as CEO of Molton Brown and his recent achievement in steering The Body Shop back to profitability following its own post-administration sale, has strategically purchased selected assets of the chain. His interest stems from Bodycare's perceived potential and its significant role in serving areas he describes as "routinely underserved."
The once-successful company, which boasted profitability before the onset of the pandemic, had encountered considerable difficulties in recent years. These struggles culminated in its entry into administration on September 5th, a decision that unfortunately led to the closure of all 147 of its stores and the redundancy of its entire staff.
Denton's group has secured the Bodycare brand and intellectual property for an undisclosed sum, with expectations set for a phased revival of the retail chain. While there has been speculation about the potential reopening of up to 70 stores, the initial phase, slated to commence early next year, is projected to see between 30 and 50 sites reopen, leading to the re-employment of several hundred staff members. Given the chain's historical strength in Northern England, the comeback strategy is anticipated to kick off in the Northwest region.
The successful execution of this ambitious comeback plan will heavily rely on the new owners establishing close collaborations with both landlords and suppliers. This collaborative effort is deemed crucial for building a resurrected chain that possesses a truly sustainable future and can thrive in the competitive retail landscape.
Commenting on the acquisition, Nick Holloway, MD at administrator Interpath, expressed satisfaction: "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." Charles Denton himself added, "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."
