Anita Roddick

Date of Birth: October 23, 1942

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: September 10, 2007

Biography

Anita Roddick was a pioneering British businesswoman, environmentalist, and human rights activist best known for founding The Body Shop, a globally recognized cosmetics company that promotes ethical consumerism. Born in 1942 in Littlehampton, England, Roddick was the daughter of Italian immigrants. She initially trained as a teacher, but her career took a dramatic turn when she opened the first Body Shop in 1976 in Brighton. The store became an immense success, known for its environmentally friendly and cruelty-free products. Roddick’s visionary approach to business emphasized social responsibility, fair trade, and sustainability long before these concepts became mainstream. Under her leadership, The Body Shop expanded rapidly, opening thousands of stores worldwide. She was also an outspoken advocate on numerous social issues, including women’s rights, animal rights, and environmental conservation. In recognition of her efforts, Roddick received numerous awards and honors, including a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE). She continued to be active in various philanthropic endeavors until her death in 2007.

5 Interesting Facts about Anita Roddick

1. Anita Roddick opened the first Body Shop with just £4,000.

2. She was awarded the title of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2003.

3. The Body Shop was sold to L’Oréal in 2006 for £652.3 million.

4. Roddick was a prominent advocate for ethical consumerism and fair trade practices.

5. She was diagnosed with Hepatitis C, which she contracted from a blood transfusion in 1971.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Anita Roddick

1. “If you think you’re too small to have an impact, try going to bed with a mosquito.”

2. “Business shapes the world. It is capable of changing society in almost any way you can imagine.”

3. “The business of business should not be about money. It should be about responsibility. It should be about public good, not private greed.”

4. “I want to work for a company that contributes to and is part of the community. I want something not just to invest in. I want something to believe in.”

5. “The end result of kindness is that it draws people to you.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth achieved by Anita Roddick was estimated to be around £210 million.

Children

Anita Roddick had two daughters, Justine and Sam Roddick. Both daughters have been involved in various social and entrepreneurial ventures. Justine has worked in public relations, while Sam founded Coco de Mer, a high-end erotic boutique.