Both M&S and Next are reportedly considering launching rescue bids for the embattled retailer The Body Shop, as administrators get ready to launch an auction process.
According to The Times, administrators FRP Advisory are reportedly “encouraged” after the high street firms expressed early interest in The Body Shop.
The outlet also reported that FRP has received around 70 expressions of interest with HMV owner Doug Putman also said to be interested.
Back In February administrators at FRP Advisory announced they expected to close nearly half of The Body Shop’s 198 stores at the end of its restructuring plans in a bid to secure the future of the retailer.
After years of unprofitability and following a full evaluation of The Body Shop’s UK business, joint administrators Geoff Rowley and Alastair Massey concluded that the current store portfolio mix was no longer viable.
The Body Shop collapsed less than three months after its owner Aurelius acquired the brand for £207m at the end of 2023. It is understood that the private equity firm was unsuccessful in its plan to revive The Body Shop’s fortunes after underwhelming trading over the crucial Christmas and New Year trading period.
