Lush has launched a new collection which it said is inspired by its high street rival The Body Shop’s best-selling products.
The beauty brand has reformulated 12 of The Body Shop’s hero items across hair, body and skin care in a collection called The Lush Version.
It is said to be a “fresh take on old friends and [The] Body Shop classics,” read a statement from Lush.
The launch coincides with The Body Shop being rescued from administration this month by new owner Auréa – an investment company led by retail tycoon Mike Jatania.
The Body Shop has been going through a turbulent time after its UK business collapsed into administration in February 2024.
Cosmetics Business has contacted The Body Shop for comment about the Lush launch, while Auréa has declined to comment.
Lush said the collection is a “tribute to the hippy path we forged decades ago” as co-founder Mark Constantine has a long-standing relationship with The Body Shop.
Constantine started his career as a supplier to The Body Shop with his previous business Constantine & Weir, which specialised in herbal beauty formulations and treatments.
He worked with The Body Shop’s founder Anita Roddick on several formulations which went on to become best-selling products for the brand, including The Henna Shampoo.
“Back in the day, the founders of Lush ran a business providing R&D, manufacturing, training and campaign support to The Body Shop and others,” read a statement from Lush.
“They created a back catalogue of products that found fame and fortune elsewhere.
The Lush Version is said to be a "fresh take" on The Body Shop's bestsellers
“When news broke that The Body Shop had entered into administration after another change of hands, it stirred up all kinds of feelings for the Lush co-founders.
“While the working relationship was over several companies ago, the two businesses shared history, and often even ingredient suppliers.
“Those who still remember making creams for Anita in Mark and Mo’s [Constantine’s wife] shed wanted to revisit those earlier formulas: the ones that got away.”
‘The Lush Version’ includes an updated take on The Body Shop’s Ginger Shampoo, Banana Shampoo, Banana Conditioner, Hemp Hand Protector and Coconut Body Butter.
Body butters are “one of the many iconic products that made The Body Shop a high street phenomenon,” read Lush’s statement.
“Long before the scent of fresh, unpackaged products wafted down the high street drawing customers into Lush, The Body Shop was making waves with innovative formulations, quality natural ingredients and a bold vision to end animal testing.”
Other products in the range include Pineapple Facial Wash, Peppermint Foot Lotion, Brazilliant Body Butter and Olive Body Butter.
The Lush Version can be bought on Lush’s website and will be stocked in larger stores from November.
Former Molton Brown executive Charles Denton has recently been named The Body Shop’s new CEO.
Read more:
- The Body Shop’s new owner can revive the retail icon – here’s how
- Lush opens standalone fragrance concept shop in London
- The Body Shop’s next steps: Inside an administration journey
- Lush Cosmetics teams up with Dubai composting start-up
- Why does no one know what to do with The Body Shop?
