Yesterday, according to WWD, Ren Clean Skincare may to close. Recent developments suggest the brand may be at a critical turning point. A memo from parent company Unilever, dated late February, addressed to the brand’s partners and seen by WWD, outlines “an important development” for the business.
The memo states that Unilever has entered a collective consultation process with Ren employees and their representatives to review operations and determine the best course of action. While Unilever insists that “no final decisions have been made,” the vague language leaves room for speculation about a potential shutdown. A Unilever spokesperson confirmed that a strategic review of Ren’s future is underway, with proposed plans subject to consultation.
Despite the uncertainty, Unilever has assured partners that it remains committed to supplying Ren products and maintaining service continuity. However, the broader context suggests Ren is not a priority for the multinational.
Unilever’s leadership has undergone significant changes, including the sudden departure of CEO Hein Schumacher in February. His successor, Fernando Fernandez, has emphasized a strategy of focusing on fewer, high-impact brands, particularly those generating over 1 billion euros annually. Ren, alongside Kate Somerville and Garancia, is estimated to bring in less than $50 million in annual sales—placing it at risk of being divested or discontinued.
Reports suggest that Unilever had already been exploring the sale of some prestige brands, including Ren and Kate Somerville, in an effort to streamline its portfolio and improve profitability. Ren, acquired by Unilever in 2015, built its reputation on clean beauty principles and a loyal consumer base.
