Bodycare has secured a fresh investment round, with a view to accelerating its return to the high street and developing an AI-powered retail model.
The company said the funding was led by early-stage venture capital firm Arāya Ventures, alongside entrepreneur Dilesh Mehta and a syndicate of retail operators, technology specialists and brand builders.
The size of the investment was not disclosed.
The new capital will support Bodycare’s national store rollout and the development of AIMEE, its proprietary intelligence platform.
The technology analyses customer behaviour, product trends, pricing, stock levels and creator performance, allowing Bodycare to adjust decisions across merchandising, supply chain and operations in real time.
Bodycare chief executive and executive chairman Charles Denton said: “Retail doesn’t need another retailer, it needs a fundamentally different model.”
He added that the funding would help the business combine physical stores, AI and creator-led commerce into a connected shopping experience.
“Their backing gives us the resources, expertise and strategic support to accelerate our rollout and execute our long-term vision of building one of the UK’s most innovative retail businesses,” Denton said.
The investment follows the opening of Bodycare’s first Studio Store in Sheffield, where the retailer said early trading had exceeded expectations.
Further stores are due to open in Derby and Leicester this month as the chain continues rebuilding its UK estate.
The new Bodycare Studio format combines everyday beauty and personal care products with live social-commerce broadcasts, creator studios, product demonstrations and expert-led services.
Its first 25 stores are expected to feature demonstration areas, digital screens, broadcast studios and spaces for content creators.
Arāya Ventures founder and managing partner Rupa Popat said Bodycare had “a powerful foundation, a loyal customer base and an ambitious leadership team”.
She added that the investor believed the next generation of successful retailers would combine trusted brands with AI-led operations and disciplined execution.
Bodycare is aiming to open 25 stores during 2026 and grow to more than 200 locations over the next five years.
It is rebuilding after its previous owner fell into administration in 2025, resulting in the closure of all 147 of its stores.
An investor group led by former The Body Shop and Molton Brown boss Denton acquired Bodycare’s brand and intellectual property from administrators in October 2025, paving the way for its phased high street revival.
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
