The Body Shop Reportedly in Exclusive Acquisition Talks With Aurelius Group

The Body Shop International Limited is in talks with the Aurelius Group for a possible acquisition deal. Based on the report, people familiar with the matter said the latter may buy the British cosmetic store chain.

The Aurelius Group Asset management company headquartered in Grünwald, Germany, may acquire The Body Shop from Natura & Co Holding SA. As per Bloomberg, the deal could be signed as early as November.

Aurelius Group’s Takeover Bid

The acquisition deal may be confirmed next month after other bidders, such as Alteri Investors and Elliott Advisors, were reportedly taken off the list and leaving Aurelius. The transaction could be valued between £400 million to £500 million.

According to Sky News, the first to publish the report, the ongoing negotiations between the companies are expected to result in an official buyout deal. It was during the summer when Natura & Co Holding placed The Body Shop on the market. In any case, it was said that Natura & Co. started to explore the sale to reduce costs after buying The Body Shop from L’Oreal in June 2017.

Aiming for the Completion of the Deal This Year

Currently, the firm hired Morgan Stanley to handle the transactions related to the acquisition. It was added that the main goal is to complete the deal before this year ends. Reuters reported that If the takeover of The Body Shop proceeds, the sale price may still be reduced and probably lower than the $485.20 million to $606.50 million suggested value.

At any rate, this buyout will further expand the Aurelius Group’s business portfolio after buying the Foortasylum streetwear and sportswear chain. The company bought this after the competition board ordered JD Sports to sell it. The Germany-based firm also owns the Lloyds Pharmacy group.

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