24 September 2025
Bira has expressed alarm at the complete collapse of Bodycare, as all remaining 56 stores close by this Saturday (September 27) with the loss of 444 jobs nationwide.
The health and beauty chain, which employed about 1,500 people across nearly 150 stores when it entered administration in early September, has been declared "no longer viable" by administrators.
All remaining 56 stores nationwide will close by this weekend. Founded on a Lancashire market stall more than half a century ago, Bodycare specialised in fragrances, toiletries, cosmetics and skincare products. Administrators cited a shortage of stock and "significant costs associated with operating stores" as making the business unviable, despite interest from "a number of parties" looking to buy the chain.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "This is just more bad news for the retail sector and our high streets. The reasons given for this retail chain failing are the increasing costs of running a high street business and cheap imports undermining our retailers.
"I fear the budget will present more bad news, as the rates proposal – an alleged transformation – will more than double the business rates payable for tens of thousands of medium-sized retailers. This complete collapse shows the devastating reality facing high street businesses across Britain.
"Independent retailers desperately need support, not additional burdens," Mr Goodacre added. "The complete failure of Bodycare shows what happens when businesses face ever-increasing costs while competing against cheap imports that often enter the UK duty-free.
"The Chancellor must use this budget to provide real support for the independent retail sector. Business rates reform, action on the £5.9 billion low-value import loophole, and measures to boost consumer confidence are desperately needed.
"In the budget I am urging the Chancellor to change the rates proposal and remove the low-value imports duty-free loophole," Mr Goodacre concluded. "The alternative is many more business failures. Every week of delay means more jobs lost and more empty shops. The government must act decisively to support the backbone of our communities."
The Bodycare closure follows Claire's recent administration putting 2,150 jobs at risk, while River Island and Hobbycraft have announced major restructuring plans. Bira's recent Heartbeat Survey revealed that 46% of independent retailers reported worse trading compared to last year.
Bira's advocacy takes your voice to the heart of Parliament
Bira is at the forefront of championing the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain.
Our campaigns cover a wide spectrum of issues crucial to the success of independent traders including:
- Combatting the rising tide of retail crime
- Advocating for changes in legislation that promote fairness and flexibility
- Fighting for fairer business rates
- Overall reducing the regulatory burden
- £1 billion damages claim against Amazon by UK retailers
Catch up on key industry insights with podcast episodes available now
High Street Matters will discuss crucial subjects such as consumer trends, relevant government legislation, business rates, parking and staffing, providing top tips to help to help businesses stay ahead of the retail curve.
We’re talking to a cross section of our members from across the UK, from single retail outlets to small chains, and from large department stores to leisure and hospitality.
Listen to the series, available now.
Image credit: Stephen Davies/stock.adobe.com
Latest News
Read more-
Home Office launches cyber crime squad targeting overseas scammers to help individuals and UK businesses
A new cyber crime squad targeting international fraud gangs is being launched by the Home Office, with ministers saying the move will help protect individuals and UK businesses.
-
Independent retailers warn Spring Statement missed opportunity as geopolitical tensions threaten high street recovery
Bira has warned that the Chancellor's Spring Statement offered no new support for high street businesses.
-
Independent retailers warn of bleak outlook for 2026 after difficult end to last year
Britain's independent retailers are heading into 2026 with confidence at rock bottom, new research reveals.
-
Bira urges shoppers to think local first this Mother's Day
Independent retailers are being encouraged to promote their Mother's Day offerings as part of the latest Love Your High Street campaign, taking place this March.