The Bodyshop – A Growing Legacy of Wellbeing

The Bodyshop – A Growing Legacy of Wellbeing

With Brazil’s Natura taking over The Body Shop from L’Oreal in September 2017, two like-minded companies with a commitment to sustainable growth and ethical trade came together. Beauty Launchpad spoke to Harmeet Singh (General Manager – Marketing, Merchandising and E-Commerce, Asia South, The Body Shop, to know more about the brand’s legacy, the future, and its India Story. Here’s a short excerpt from the conversation.

How has Anita Roddick’s legacy been taken forward by The Body Shop in the contemporary era?
The Body Shop will always take inspiration from the beliefs and principles established by Anita. However, in harmony with the changing world we inhabit, the meaning of these will evolve. She pioneered a business model that creates a positive impact on individuals and communities and used the human connection as a tool to inspire learning and success. She spoke out against the industry’s false claims that endorse perfection as a source of happiness. She defined beauty as a source of joy and energy as well as a powerful tool for building self-esteem. We exist to fight for a fairer and more beautiful world, this is our purpose as a brand.

How is the retail scenario developing in India?
Indian retail is one of the fastest growing markets in the world due to its economic growth. The retail sector is booming with retail development taking place not just in major cities and metros, but also in Tier-II and Tier-III cities. The overall beauty retail market in India is growing rapidly with the cosmetics market growing at 15-20% annually. The beauty care industry in India is likely to become the main contributor to the growth of the Indian wellness industry and it consists of salons, cosmetic products, cosmetics treatment centres, etc. There are many factors that are driving growth – urbanisation, changing consumer tastes and an increase in disposable income.

Who are the suppliers from India?
A firm believer in empowering people, The Body Shop’s founder Dame Anita Roddick founded Community Trade as Trade Not Aid in February 1987 as a way to give developing communities a hand up, rather than a handout. Teddy Exports from India was The Body Shop’s first Community Trade supplier and continues to craft wooden massagers and organic cotton tote bags for The Body Shop till date.

What does 2019 look like for the brand?
2019 looks like a promising year for the brand. This year, we are celebrating 25 years of Community Trade partnership with the Tungteiya Women’s Association in Northern Ghana and also launching our new Shea hair care range in India. We are focussing on introducing more 100 % vegan products and CSR projects this year that differentiates us from the other beauty brands.

For the complete interview, see Beauty Launchpad India April 2019 issue – on the stands now! Or call  011 – 41324010 to subscribe.