Lush has closed all of its UK shops, factories and website today in protest over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The ethical cosmetics retailer has halted operations for the day, with shop windows across the country displaying the message: “Stop Starving Gaza – We Are Closed in Solidarity.”
The move is intended to show support for civilians in Gaza, where aid agencies have warned of severe shortages of food and medical supplies.
Lush said the decision to pause trading was not taken lightly. “Providing our customers with the very best service is ingrained into everything we do at Lush, so shutting our shops is not an easy decision,” the retailer said.
“However, we know that many of our customers share the same anxiety about the current situation in Gaza.”
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The brand has also relaunched its Watermelon Slice soap, its most successful single-issue fundraising product to date. Proceeds will now go towards medical services, including charities preparing to provide prosthetic limb support to adults and children injured in Gaza.
By shutting down for the day, Lush said both the business and the UK government will lose takings and tax contributions. It hopes the closure sends a clear message to ministers, calling for an end to arms sales and stronger government action to stop the conflict.
Lush has long used its stores and products as platforms for activism, previously campaigning on issues from climate change to refugee rights.
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