Bodycare Makes a Comeback with Three New Midlands Stores
The discount toiletries and cosmetics retailer Bodycare is set to return to the High Street, with the Midlands playing a central role in its revival. Following its collapse into administration last October, the brand has been purchased by an investor group led by former Body Shop boss Charles Denton, sparking a new chapter for the chain.
Midlands at the Heart of the Revival
Bodycare has announced the reopening of six stores across the UK, with three located in the Midlands. The Merry Hill shopping centre in Dudley will see a store, alongside locations at Derbion in Derby and Highcross in Leicester. This strategic move highlights the region's importance in the retailer's comeback efforts.
These openings mark the first since the brand was acquired out of administration. The new owners have ambitious plans, aiming to open 19 more stores by the end of 2026 and eventually expand to over 200 locations nationwide. This follows the closure of all 147 Bodycare stores last year after the company's financial collapse.
Reimagined Brand and Future Growth
David Stern, managing director at Bodycare, expressed enthusiasm for the relaunch. "Since the acquisition of Bodycare, the team has reimagined both the in-store experience and the brand's digital presence," he said. "The response from the industry to date has reinforced our confidence to scale quickly, and we are looking forward to welcoming customers back as soon as possible."
Property consultancy Newmark is supporting Bodycare in this venture. David Purslow, executive managing director at Newmark, commented, "Bodycare is executing a compelling retail strategy – moving at pace but with clear direction and a disciplined approach which sets it up for success. Our priority is to ensure the property strategy underpins the brand's momentum as it scales nationally."
Full List of New Bodycare Store Openings
- Merry Hill in Dudley
- Derbion in Derby
- The Moor in Sheffield
- Highcross in Leicester
- The Mall in Blackburn
- St Johns in Leeds
This revival signals a significant shift for the retail sector, with Bodycare aiming to reclaim its position as a leading discount retailer in the cosmetics and toiletries market. The Midlands stores are expected to attract local shoppers seeking affordable products, contributing to the region's economic activity and High Street vibrancy.
