17/01/2002

Body Shop reports stronger UK sales

The Body Shop has reported strong UK sales for the Christmas period, with retail activity up by 4 per cent on the previous year.

In the five-week period preceding 5 January, sales activity in shops throughout the UK returned to positive growth. However, the performance of the Body Shop’s European outlets was more disappointing, yielding mixed results, and with sales in the US dropping by 7 per cent.

The news could see the company move forward in negotiations with potential buyers, with no progress being made since talks fell through last year with Grupo Omnilife, after doubts were expressed about the Mexican company’s ability to finance the purchase.

The Body Shop has outlets in 50 countries, with 556 company-owned stores as well as a network of franchisees. (CL)

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