Earlier this month, the Body Shop has announced closure of US-based operations, but in India, the brand is ready with big offline expansion plans
In the wake of UK-based cosmetics company The Body Shop’s bankruptcy filing and subsequent closure of its US and Canada-based operations, The Body Shop India is embarking on an ambitious growth trajectory in the Indian market. Despite challenges faced by its global counterpart, the brand remains steadfast in its commitment to expansion, aiming for double-digit growth with a strategic focus on key segments.
With plans to add 100 more brand touchpoints, The Body Shop India is gearing up for a significant expansion in the Travel Retail, Beauty Specialty, and Quick Commerce segments. Presently operating 200 stores nationwide and reaching 1500+ cities through its online platform and marketplace partnerships, the brand is poised for substantial growth across various channels.
Vishal Chaturvedi, Vice President of Retail & Operations at The Body Shop, highlighted India’s significance as one of the brand’s strongest markets globally. He emphasised the brand’s commitment to enhancing accessibility to its products through omnichannel expansion, leveraging high convenience formats to bolster brand affinity among Indian consumers.
Says Chaturvedi, “India continues to be one of the strongest markets for the brand globally. The brand now is looking at double-digit growth with focus on expansion in travel retail, standalone, beauty specialty and quick commerce segments. We recognise the evolving landscape of shopper behaviour within our category and the pivotal role that offline stores play in fostering meaningful connections with our customers.”
Chaturvedi added that The Body Shop has cultivated a loyal following among conscious consumers seeking more than just products. “At the core of The Body Shop India’s resilience is our understanding of the country’s diverse consumer base. Through campaigns like “Spark a Change” and the iconic British Rose campaign launch featuring actress Diana Penty, we have tapped into the evolving beauty aspirations of Indian shoppers. These initiatives have struck a chord, fostering a sense of brand affinity that transcends mere transactions.”
Despite facing challenges from high inflation across US and Canada markets, The Body Shop India remains resolute in its pursuit of growth. The brand acknowledges the evolving landscape of shopper behaviour within its category and recognizes the pivotal role of offline stores in fostering meaningful connections with customers.
As The Body Shop India sets its sights on double-digit growth, its unwavering commitment to sustainability, activism, and consumer-centric initiatives positions it as a leader in the Indian
cosmetics industry. With a strategic focus on expansion across key segments, the brand is poised for success in navigating the dynamic Indian market landscape.
