The Body Shop Files for Bankruptcy, Closes All US Stores and Dozens in Canada
The iconic cosmetics retailer The Body Shop has filed for bankruptcy protection and is shuttering operations across North America. Founded in 1976 by activist Anita Roddick, The Body Shop pioneered natural and cruelty-free beauty products but has struggled in recent years with inflation and shifting consumer preferences.
As of March 1st, The Body Shop’s entire US business ceased operations, closing all of its American stores. In addition, 33 Canadian locations began liquidation sales with online sales in Canada also ending. While the remaining 72 Canadian stores will stay open for now, it remains unclear how many may ultimately close their doors. The Body Shop confirmed the bankruptcy filing will allow them to restructure their business globally.
A Pioneer in Ethical Beauty
For nearly 50 years, The Body Shop blazed trails in promoting sustainability and social causes through its products. As one of the first major brands to adopt policies like banning animal testing, The Body Shop helped drive consumer demand for natural, eco-friendly cosmetics. However, rising costs and changing lifestyles have challenged the retailer’s village shop model located primarily in malls. The Body Shop has changed hands multiple times in recent years as former owners attempted to revive its flagging sales.
After shutting down operations across North America, The Body Shop’s future remains uncertain. The bankruptcy restructuring could lead to ownership changes once more. For legions of loyal customers, the news marks the end of an era for a pioneer in ethical beauty retailing.
