Boots, the UK’s largest beauty and healthcare retailer, is thought to be setting in motion a sale of one of its best-known beauty brands.
According to a report from Sky News, the high street chain is preparing to put out feelers to potential bidders for Aromatherapy Associates, a beauty and wellness brand that specialises in bath and body products.
Boots took over the luxury brand in 2014; however, it is not part of Boots’ break away business No7 Beauty Company.
Still part of Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA), Boots’ owner, the company holds onto its No7, Liz Earle, Botanics, Soap & Glory, Sleek MakeUp and YourGoodSkin brands.
Last week it was revealed that Boots itself could be put on the market by WBA.
A sale could value Boots at up to £5bn, but it’s not certain a sale will take place.
Sources also revealed that WBA could choose to list the 172-year-old retailer as a separate company.
In a statement to Cosmetics Business, WBA would not comment on the speculation.
“Walgreens Boots Alliance does not comment on market speculation and Boots is an important part of the Group.”
If Boots was to go to auction, it could be one of the retail industry's most significant sales in years.
To date, Boots’ network of retail destinations spans 2,200 and employs around 55,000 people.
Boots declined to comment on the announcement.
Cosmetics Business has reached out to Aromatherapy Associates for comment.