THE Body Shop has hired administrators for the UK arm of its business, putting thousands of jobs at the cosmetics chain at risk.

The retailer, which runs more than 200 shops across the UK -  including at Bradford's Broadway shopping centre - has appointed insolvency experts from FRP Advisory to oversee the process.

FRP said the administrators will "consider all options to find a way forward for the business" after years of financial struggles and amid a challenging backdrop for shoppers.

The chain will continue to trade through stores and online during the administration process.

The retailer was founded in 1976 by Anita Roddick and her husband Gordon as one of the first companies to promote so-called ethical consumerism, focusing on ethically produced cosmetics and skincare products.

It comes only weeks after new owners, European private equity firm Aurelius, took control of the business.

Administrators' statement in full

In a statement about the company's administration, FRP said: "Today, the directors of The Body Shop International Limited have appointed Tony Wright, Geoff Rowley and Alastair Massey, of business advisory firm FRP, as joint administrators of the company, which operates The Body Shop's UK business.

"Taking this approach provides the stability, flexibility and security to find the best means of securing the future of The Body Shop and revitalising this iconic British brand.

"The joint administrators will now consider all options to find a way forward for the business and will update creditors and employees in due course.

"The Body Shop remains guided by its ambition to be a modern, dynamic beauty brand, relevant to customers and able to compete for the long term.

"Creating a more nimble and financially stable UK business is an important step in achieving this.

"The joint administrators will continue to trade the business in administration, ensuring customers will be able to continue to shop in store and online for their favourite products.

"The Body Shop has faced an extended period of financial challenges under past owners, coinciding with a difficult trading environment for the wider retail sector.

"Having taken swift action in the last month, including closing down The Body Shop At Home and selling its business across most of Europe and in parts of Asia, focusing on the UK business is the next important step in The Body Shop's restructuring."