The consumer goods giant has announced the clean beauty pioneer is expected to cease trading by the end of Q3 2025.
Unilever cited “a combination of internal factors, compounded by market challenges,” as the reason for the business closure. The group said the brand is “unable to sustain success in the long term.”
“We are proud of the REN team for all they have accomplished during 25 years of business, putting clean skincare on the agenda and creating positive change for both people and planet,” said Unilever.
Unilever announced last year that it was looking to sell its REN and Kate Somerville brands, both of which were acquired in 2015.
REN Clean Skincare was founded in the UK by Rob Calcraft and Antony Buck in 2000. They pioneered the “clean beauty” concept with a comprehensive ‘NO’ list of ingredients that they wouldn’t include in the formulations.
The brand first gained recognition through its Liverpool Street store in London before making its debut in department stores, first at Liberty London in 2004 and then at John Lewis from 2005. Unilever acquired it in 2015 for an undisclosed amount, with the aim of unlocking its global growth potential.
Initially appreciated for its natural, innovative and effective formulas, REN Clean Skincare has also invested heavily in packaging sustainability. However, in June 2023, Ren Clean Skincare slashed its product portfolio by a third as part of a wider strategy to modernize its image, improve its profitability and accelerate sales.
