Bodycare appoints chief executive as it ramps up UK store roll out

Charles Denton, the former chief executive at The Body Shop and Molton Brown, will take on the top role at Bodycare after his investment group acquired the retailer out of administration in October 2025. He will also serve as executive chairman.

He will work alongside managing director David Stern to lead the strategic direction of Bodycare as it commits to opening an initial 17 UK stores, international expansion, and innovation.

He will drive the rollout of the beauty retailer’s new generation of studio stores, strengthen local community engagement, develop partnerships, expand through franchise partnerships, and oversee Bodycare’s development of proprietary AI.

It aims to be an “AI-first” retailer, with the tech aiming to support smarter decision-making across merchandising, inventory, customer engagement and future retail intelligence capabilities.

Denton said: “Bodycare represents a remarkable opportunity to redefine what value retail can become. Today’s customer is smarter than ever. They want exceptional value, but they also expect discovery, inspiration and experiences that make shopping enjoyable again.

“Our ambition is to build a business around that smart customer. We’re creating stores that are destinations, places where people can discover exciting products, learn from experts, engage with their local community and enjoy an experience that goes far beyond simply buying health and beauty products.

“Retail is changing rapidly, and while technology will undoubtedly play an increasingly important role, we firmly believe the future belongs to businesses that successfully combine innovation with genuine human connection.”

Managing director David Stern added: “Charles shares our belief that Bodycare can become something far bigger than a traditional retailer. His experience of building brands, transforming businesses and creating long-term strategic value makes him the ideal person to help us lead Bodycare into its next chapter. Together with our exceptional team, we’re building a business designed to thrive for decades to come.

“We believe sustainable retail success lies in combining compelling value with memorable experiences, creating stores that educate, entertain and inspire while remaining deeply connected to the local communities they serve.”