The business, known for its bathbombs and ethically-sourced products, said it will not renew its ten Westfield leases once they expire.
Soaps and cosmetics retailer Lush says it will end its tenancies at all Westfield shopping centres nationwide, reverting to a smaller store footprint focused on “serving local communities in the right locations.”
The business, known for its bathbombs and a focus on ethically-sourced products, this week confirmed it will not renew its ten Westfield leases once they expire.
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In a statement provided to nine.com.au, a Lush spokesperson confirmed the exit will take place over the coming three years.
“We aim to grow our presence across the country by serving local communities in the right locations with the appropriate size and type of store,” they said.
“Lush is at its best when it reflects not just the skin and haircare needs of local communities, but amplifies that community’s values and aspirations.”
The decision to exit those tenancies comes nearly a year after Lush closed its Australian stores for a day, with the business drawing attention to starvation in conflict-stricken Gaza.
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In a statement posted to the company website, Lush had described that temporary closure as a form of corporate activism.
“Whilst Lush is losing a day of takings, this also means that the Australian Government is losing a day of tax contributions from Lush and our customers,” it said.
“We hope they too hear the message our closure sends, with more Government action needed to bring an immediate stop to the death and destruction.”
That protest also included posters in Lush’s Westfield stores. Centre management reportedly moved to temporarily cover those window displays while the protest took place.
The British-born brand has a history of taking a stance on societal issues: in 2020, the business pledged an awareness and fundraising campaign in response to the Black Lives Matter movement.
“Businesses need to move beyond statements to show genuine solidarity and allyship through action and listening to people of colour with lived experience,” Peta Granger, Lush’s former ANZ director, said at the time.
SmartCompany has contacted Lush and Westfield operator Scentre Group for comment.