G.R. & M.M. Blackledge PLC trading as Bodycare - Administration

G.R. & M.M. Blackledge PLC trading as Bodycare, a high street beauty chain, entered administration on 5 September, with Nick Holloway, Chris Pole and Mike Leeds of Interpath appointed joint administrators.

Bodycare was founded in 1970, eventually growing to trade from 147 stores across the UK and employing about 1,500 people prior to the administrators’ appointment.

Bodycare has faced a number of challenges in recent years which have negatively impacted its financial position, including rising costs, a delayed transition to its online retail platform, and the cost-of-living crisis impacting its customer base. In addition, a planned IPO in 2024 was aborted, which led to a shortfall in funding and placed strain on supplier relationships, resulting in a shortage of stock.

The joint administrators intend to continue to trade the majority (115) of Bodycare’s stores while they assess options. Unfortunately, however, 32 stores have closed, with about 450 employees made redundant.