Lush closes all British and Irish stores in solidarity with Gaza

British cosmetics chain Lush kept all its stores, website and factories in the United Kingdom closed yesterday. Shop windows displayed the message, “Stop starving Gaza – we are closed in solidarity.” Today it is Ireland’s turn, other regions may follow.

One-day closure

With this symbolic action, the cosmetics chain wants to draw attention to the catastrophic situation in Gaza. The company acknowledges that the measure is causing some customers discomfort, but wants to make calls for humanitarian aid louder. The closure also means a day with no company sales, so no British tax payments. The company says it did not take the decision lightly and believes businesses should use their platform to highlight pressing humanitarian issues.

Lush is also re-releasing its fundraising soap Watermelon Slice, which previously achieved record sales. Proceeds go to medical support in Gaza, including charities preparing to provide prosthetics to adults and children injured in the conflict.

Call to government

The company says this action reflects customer concerns about the catastrophic situation in Gaza, which is widely recognised as a genocide by Israel. With the closure, Lush also wants to send a clear message to policymakers: take stronger measures to end the violence and stop selling arms to Israel.

Lush operates in more than fifty countries and expects similar moves may come in other markets. “We know that sentiment across the international Lush business is strong and we expect similar actions may follow as other Lush countries seek ways to express their solidarity”, a statement declares. Still, the chain felt it was important to make its voice heard first in the United Kingdom, the country in which Lush was founded in 1995. The chain is known for handmade bath and body products and emphasis on ethical business practices.