uk.superbrands.com Superbrands UK Vol. 24 Market As the high street’s original health and wellness retailer, Holland & Barrett is transforming into a destination for wellness solutions that work. It is addressing people’s desire to take care of their health with products and services that are rooted in science. Holland & Barrett is one of the UK’s leading wellness retailers and one of the largest in Europe with more than 1,000 stores across 19 countries as well as a growing online presence. It has a significant global reach and is active in markets such as the UAE, China and Hong Kong. Holland & Barrett’s ambition is to become the trusted partner for more than 100 million people globally. Achievements Holland & Barrett champions wellness in the workplace. The business has been recognised as an ‘Includability Committed Employer’, reflecting its commitment to support inclusivity of its colleagues throughout all areas of the business. It has also achieved Menopause Friendly Employer Accreditation as part of its commitment to creating a positive and inclusive working environment. Holland & Barrett is well known for the high level of training it offers to its store colleagues who are ‘qualified to advise’ on its products’ health benefits, enhancing the in-store customer experience. This customer experience was recognised at the 2024 Retail Week Awards, when the business won the Customer Experience Gamechanger Award for its use of technology to enhance colleague training and deliver brilliant, expert customer service. History Holland & Barrett was founded in 1870 by Alfred Slapps Barrett and Major William Holland. The company started as a grocery shop in Bishop’s Stortford, selling groceries, provisions and clothing. The business evolved over time and began focusing on health foods and supplements. In the early 20th century, the company expanded its reach, opening stores in London and other major UK cities. This expansion was supported by investment from Samuel Ryder, a successful seed merchant and golf enthusiast, who is perhaps best known for his sponsorship of the Ryder Cup, one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the world. Ryder was also a supporter of health and wellness and was a regular customer of the St. Albans branch. He was particularly fond of the store’s dried fruit and nut products, which he believed helped to improve his health and stamina on the golf course. The business later merged with the Ryder family’s chain of herbal remedy stores, Heath & Heather, founded in the 1920s, and the combined business was named Holland & Barrett. During World War II, the company supplied health supplements to British soldiers. After the war, it continued to expand its range of products to include vitamins, minerals and other dietary supplements. Holland & Barrett continued to expand its retail presence, and by the 1980s, it had become one of the largest health food retailers in the UK. The business continued to thrive and innovate, driving affordable access to food and nutrition supplements for all dietary needs in the latter part of the 20th century. Holland & Barrett was an early advocate of plant-based, organic and vegan foods. In addition, the business launched the largest range of products on the UK high street for those with food allergies and intolerances. Holland & Barrett also spearheaded the inclusion of natural ingredients in beauty supplements and sports nutrition, creating
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MzM4MjU2