The Body Shop faces administration, putting UK jobs and stores at risk

The Body Shop's UK arm is lining up administrators and could enter administration this week, putting thousands of jobs at risk and likely leading to store closures. The retailer has struggled with disappointing Christmas and January trading.

The Body Shop, founded in 1976, was known for its ethical trading stance and natural ingredients. It was bought by private equity firm Aurelius last November.

The retailer has over 200 UK stores but its international business has already been sold off to an unknown family office.

The appointment of administrators aims to find buyers for parts of the business and reduce costs through store closures to better compete with growing rivals like Lush.

It's another blow to the UK high street after the struggles of retailers like Wilko, as shifting consumer habits and the cost of living crisis hammer demand.