Charles Denton-led investor group acquires Bodycare assets

An investor group led by beauty sector executive Charles Denton has acquired certain assets of Bodycare, the long-standing value beauty retailer formerly operating across high streets in the North and Midlands.

Denton will lead the business following the transaction, with the first wave of store reopenings planned for early 2026. The assets include Bodycare’s brand and intellectual property. The terms of the deal have not been disclosed.

Founded in Lancashire in the 1970s, Bodycare fell into administration last month, closing all 147 stores and making more than 1,500 staff redundant. Before entering administration, the retailer reported sales of £133m in 2024.

The new ownership plans to relaunch between 30 and 50 stores in the first phase, expected between the first and second quarters of 2026, focusing on the North West. Several hundred roles are expected to be rehired during that period, subject to agreement with landlords.

The investor group said it intends to work with landlords, suppliers and former employees to support a structured restart, aiming to retain the retailer’s reputation for affordable beauty and personal care products.

Denton said: “Bodycare is much-loved and trusted – it matters deeply to the communities it serves. We now have the mandate to bring stores and jobs back by transforming Bodycare’s rich legacy into a modern, scalable and profitable business.”

Nick Holloway, managing director at Interpath and joint administrator, added: “We are pleased to hand Bodycare to an experienced new owner with a clear plan to restart operations. We wish the business every success in the future.”