Harvey Nichols is set to close its only standalone beauty store, Beauty Bazaar in Liverpool ONE, as the luxury department store chain shifts its focus to full-category stores.
After more than a decade in operation, the Liverpool beauty destination will soon shut its doors as part of Harvey Nichols’ broader strategy to reposition itself for growth. “We have reviewed our store portfolio and mutually agreed with the landlord of our Beauty Bazaar location in Liverpool to surrender the lease as we focus on investment into full-category stores,” the retailer stated.
The closure places employees at risk of redundancy, with the company confirming it has entered a consultation process to support those affected.
Harvey Nichols operates 14 stores globally, including eight in the UK and Ireland. The decision to streamline operations comes after Julia Goodard, former Alexander McQueen President, was appointed CEO last year, followed by the naming of Kate Phelan as the retailer’s first-ever Creative Director.
The move also reflects the increasingly competitive beauty retail landscape. Rivals such as Sephora and Space NK are aggressively expanding their high street presence, with Sephora planning 20 more UK stores, including one at Liverpool ONE, while Space NK is growing its footprint with new locations and an expanded Glasgow store.
Other department stores, including Fenwick, John Lewis, and Harrods, have also been bolstering their beauty offerings, with Harrods now operating five standalone H beauty stores across the UK.
