By George Anderson
There will be those who believe The Body Shop's founder Dame Anita Roddick gave up the cause when she sold the chain to the cosmetics giant L'Oreal, but that's not how she sees it.
"They (L'Oreal's management) understand what a maverick The Body Shop was in the business world and how we helped change the language of business, incorporating the action of social change, especially in human rights, animal welfare, the environment and community trade," she said in a released statement.
L'Oreal, which has pledged to continue following the principles The Body Shop was founded on, will retain Dame Anita as consultant for the chain and corporate community trade efforts.
Adrian Bellamy, chairman of The Body Shop, said in a released statement, the deal "will provide significant strategic impetus to the Body Shop's growth plans for its three retail channels of stores, direct selling and e-commerce around the world."
Mr. Bellamy added, "L'Oreal's significant strengths in the management and development of global brands, combined with our skills as a global retailer with strong values commitments will be a powerful combination, in the cosmetics and personal care market place with corresponding opportunities for our employees, franchisees and The Body Shop consultants."
Moderator's Comment: What will L'Oreal ownership of the Body Shop mean for the retailer and its customers? - George Anderson - Moderator