Lush has announced that all of its UK stores, website and factories will shut for a full day on Wednesday 3 September 2025 in a show of solidarity with Gaza.

The cosmetics chain said the move was intended as a symbolic act to highlight the humanitarian crisis in the region.

One-day closure across the UK

The British retailer confirmed that doors will be closed nationwide, including its online operations and manufacturing sites. Shop windows will display the message “Stop starving Gaza – we are closed in solidarity”.

The company acknowledged that the decision would inconvenience some customers but said the closure was intended to amplify calls for humanitarian aid.

Fundraising product to return

Lush stated that it will relaunch its fundraising soap Watermelon Slice, which previously generated record sales for a single-issue product.

Proceeds will now be directed towards medical support in Gaza, including charities preparing to provide prosthetic limb services for adults and children injured in the conflict.

The company emphasised that the fundraising initiative reflects customer concern about the ongoing situation.

Call for government action

The retailer noted that the closure would result in a day’s loss of both company revenue and UK tax contributions.

Lush said it hoped this would send a clear message to government officials, urging stronger action to end the violence and halt arms sales to Israel.

While the company stressed that this decision originated in the UK, it added that Lush operates in more than 50 countries and expects other regions may take similar steps.

Founded in 1995 in Dorset, Lush is best known for its handmade bath and body products and emphasis on ethical sourcing.

The company said the closure was not made lightly, but reflected its position that businesses should use their platform to highlight urgent humanitarian issues.