Littlehampton residents ‘shocked’ by the move of Body Shop’s headquarters

Jane Cundiff said the move was “a shame”, adding: “It’s been around for so long, but I think as long as they’re still employing people, they’re still making their products which are very good.”

Roger Stevens said: “I’m really shocked. The Body Shop has been part of this city for 40 years. I am very surprised.”

A spokesman for Arun District Council said it was “a sad loss for Littlehampton but not a reflection on the town”.

A spokesperson for The Body Shop said: “We would like to thank the people of Littlehampton for all their love and support over the years.

“We are proud to be part of the community there and have been touched by all the kind words of encouragement from locals in recent weeks.”

The Body Shop was founded in Kensington Gardens in 1976 by the late environmental and human rights campaigner Dame Anita Roddick.

Dame Anita and her husband Gordon sold the company to French beauty giant L’Oréal in 2006.

The new headquarters will be located in the Plus X Innovation Hub, close to the University of Brighton.