The Body Shop has entered Sri Lanka, with conglomerate Softlogic Group signing up for the franchise.

Founded by Dame Anita Roddick 40 years ago, The Body Shop introduced fair trade to the cosmetics and toiletries industry in 1987, and was the first cosmetics brand to be recognised under the Humane Cosmetics standard for its stand against animals being used for product testing. It has more than 3000 stores in 60 countries.

While it has yet to open its first store, Body Shop Sri lanka already has a brand ambassador – Miss Sri Lanka 2006, Jacqueline Fernandez. At a launch event, she spoke about using The Body Shop products since she was a teenager.

Also at the launch, CEO Ashok Pathirage said the group had found a “kindred spirit”.

“Thanks to the synergy of our values, vision and culture, we will have the opportunity to greatly accelerate the business in Sri Lanka.”