BRANCHES of the Body Shop in Poole and Bournemouth could close as the firm heads towards administration, it has been reported.

The chain, which has more than 200 UK stores, is set to appoint administrators to handle an insolvency process, Sky News reports.

It said the cosmetic giant will consider closing a “significant chunk” of outlets, although specific shops which are closing have not yet been announced.

It comes after The Body Shop was acquired by private equity firm Aurelius in November 2023, reportedly in a deal worth £207m.

The Body Shop in Bournemouth is at risk of closure. Photo: Google.

Founded by Anita Roddick in 1976, the firm aimed to combine astute business with ethical consideration.

It championed the environment and refused to test products on animals.

This inspired Mark Constantine to open the competitor Lush, from Poole.

But with the brick and mortar shops deemed not profitable enough, the business told RetailWeek it is focusing on “strengthening digital platforms”.

Aurelius and The Body Shop have been contacted for comment.