Shalom Lloyd MBE drives The Body Shop’s West African debut
The Body Shop, the UK’s iconic ethical beauty brand, is making history with the launch of its first store in West Africa. Nigerians, who have long cherished the brand’s commitment to sustainability and ethical beauty, will now have direct access to its renowned products with the grand opening at Jabi Lake Mall, Abuja, on March 8, 2025.
This expansion is a significant milestone for both The Body Shop and UK-Nigeria trade relations. The brand’s entry into Nigeria reflects the country’s rapidly growing consumer market and the strong commercial ties between the two nations.
A vision realised by Shalom Lloyd MBE
At the helm of this exciting launch is Shalom Lloyd MBE, General Manager of The Body Shop Nigeria. A British-Nigerian entrepreneur, Shalom has been a trailblazer in international trade and women’s empowerment. Recognised with an MBE in The King’s New Year Honours List 2024, she has played a pivotal role in bringing The Body Shop to Nigeria, bridging ethical beauty with the West African market.
With over 28 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Shalom is also the founder of Naturally Tiwa Skincare, a sustainable skincare brand, and co-founder of Emerging Markets Quality Trials (eMQT), which promotes diversity in clinical trials across Africa.
Shalom Lloyd MBE commented: “This is a momentous occasion for both The Body Shop and Nigeria. Bringing an iconic British brand to a market that has long awaited its arrival is truly special.”
The Body Shop’s arrival in Nigeria has been welcomed as a major step in enhancing trade relations between the UK and Nigeria.
Mark Smithson, Country Director for the UK’s Department for Business and Trade, said: “The launch of The Body Shop’s first physical store in West Africa marks an exciting milestone for UK-Nigeria trade relations. As a globally recognised British brand committed to beauty and sustainability, The Body Shop’s expansion into Nigeria reflects the country’s growing consumer market and the strength of our commercial ties. The UK is proud to support businesses that drive investment, create jobs, and offer high-quality products to Nigerian consumers. We look forward to seeing The Body Shop thrive in this dynamic market and contribute to the ever-growing partnership between our two great nations.”
Edward Nnadi, CEO of Jean Edwards Consulting, the firm responsible for bringing The Body Shop to Nigeria, also highlighted the deeper significance of the launch: “This is not just about business – it’s about celebrating ethical beauty, sustainability, and the incredible opportunities that come from connecting two vibrant cultures. I am immensely proud of this achievement and excited about the journey ahead.”
What Makes This Launch Special?
- First West African store: Nigeria joins 71 markets worldwide as The Body Shop establishes a physical retail presence in the region.
- Commitment to ethical beauty: The brand’s core values of sustainability and social responsibility align with Nigeria’s dynamic beauty market.
- Direct access for Nigerian customers: Previously, customers relied on international travel or imports—now, The Body Shop is locally available.
Grand Opening on March 8, 2025
The countdown is on for the official opening of The Body Shop Nigeria at Jabi Lake Mall, Abuja. Customers can look forward to an immersive shopping experience, featuring the brand’s full range of skincare, body care, and fragrance products. For updates and more details, follow The Body Shop Nigeria on Instagram: @thebodyshopnigeria
