SHOPPERS in Winchester are expecting to see their Body Shop branch close after the company announced it has entered administration.
The Body Shop released a statement on Tuesday, February 13, saying that it has appointed advisory firm FRP as its administrators to find the best options to sustain the cosmetic company’s future.
More than 2,000 jobs across the country are at risk including those at the branch in Winchester High Street.
The chain will continue to trade online and through its stores during administration but Winchester shoppers believe their branch could be one of the first shops to close to cut costs.
READ MORE: Winchester Body Shop reopens with new focus on sustainability
Sisters Olivia and Grace Cahill, of Harestock Road, were on their way to see if they could get any deals after hearing the news.
Olivia, medical school graduate, 24, said: “I used to go then when I was like 18 because that was the place to go down town. Accessorize, Primark, and Body Shop were the three you had to go to.
“I’m not surprised they’re going into administration because it’s high prices for what they’re offering, especially with Boots and Superdrug so nearby. I only really go for the free samples now.
“I’m not that bothered about it going. With any shop shutting, job losses will be at the forefront of people’s minds but as a consumer it’s not that worrisome to me.
“With the aging population in Winchester we’re really missing a place like Whittard, I was sad to see it go.”
Peter Symonds student Grace, 18, said: “No one my age goes there anymore. If the Winchester branch closes I don’t want to see another restaurant, we have enough.”
Jane Lamprey, 55, a housewife from Shawford, said: “It’s a shame when anywhere closes. It’s another High Street staple and Body Shop definitely contributes to the variety of shops here in Winchester.
“As long as they don’t put another café in I’ll be happy.”
Maisie Burke, 20, a health care assistant from Badger Farm, said: “I didn’t know it was going into administration. I’m a little bit shocked. I used to go there quite a lot when I was younger but not anymore. It’s more of a place I’d go to buy gifts.
“It would be a shame if the Winchester store closed and all the jobs that would be loss isn’t great at all. Winchester isn’t that big a place so it might not get enough footfall here and it directed at young people rather than the elderly.”
University of Winchester student Callum Cole, 19, from Reading, said: “I don’t go there often and I don’t really see many people in the one here so it doesn’t shock me.
“Winchester is a bit of a risk for places like Body Shop as it’s not really known for its shopping. People are more likely to travel to Southampton anyway so I think Winchester would be one of the first stores at risk.”
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In a statement, The Body Shop said: "Today, the Directors of The Body Shop International Limited have appointed Tony Wright, Geoff Rowley, and Alastair Massey of business advisory firm FRP as Joint Administrators of the company, which operates The Body Shop's UK business.
"Taking this approach provides the stability, flexibility and security to find the best means of securing the future of The Body Shop and revitalizing this iconic British brand.
"The Joint Administrators will now consider all options to find a way forward for the business and will update creditors and employees in due course."
Winchester's Body Shop was refurbished in April, doubling its refillable station to be more sustainable.
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