Dutch Cosmetics Co Rituals Debuts In UK

Rituals, the Dutch cosmetics and homewares retailer, is to expand into the UK with an initial five store opening, after which it plans to open an ambitious 30 stores in a year roll-out plan.

The company, owned by Dutch entrepreneur Raymond Cloosterman, has a strong international presence, with shops and department store concessions in countries including Holland, Germany and Belgium. The retailer claims to be the first to 'combine home and body cosmetics' with a product offer grouped around domestic routines such as washing up, cleaning your teeth and drinking tea.

The 175-strong rituals branded offer ranges from skincare products to teas, toothpaste and dishwasher tablets.

Martin Bloom, managing director of consultancy Insight Retail, is co-ordinating the project. A partner is being sought to take the franchise-based expansion model forward.

Bloom told Retail Week that Rituals is a "total wellness concept", pitched in quality and price between Body Shop and Molton Brown.