13 hours ago
Rocher to exit Israel and centralize Sabon production in France
French beauty leader Groupe Rocher is reorganizing Sabon, one of its key skincare brands, as part of a global repositioning. The group will exit Israel, consolidate manufacturing in France, and expand Sabon's footprint in Asia and beyond. The restructuring follows Groupe Rocher's strategic decision, announced in January, to streamline operations and divest from non-core subsidiaries, including Petit Bateau and Stanhome.
Originally founded in Tel Aviv in 1997, Sabon became part of Groupe Rocher in 2018. Best known for its bath and body collections inspired by Dead Sea minerals, the brand is now shifting its growth strategy toward international markets—particularly in Asia. Meanwhile, Groupe Rocher will reinforce production at its industrial facilities in Brittany.
As part of the transition, Rocher will sell Sabon's 22 stores in Israel to a local partner. According to local reports, these locations currently employ approximately 90 people. Sabon's production facility in Kiryat Gat, which employs 104 staff, will continue operations during negotiations but is set to cease production by mid-2026.
Rocher also plans to close Sabon's Marlog logistics center once its lease expires. The site currently employs 16 people. The group confirmed that it will provide support and transition assistance to all impacted employees.
Sabon's Israeli headquarters—home to 60 staff—will gradually transfer its operations to France beginning in late 2025, with the relocation process expected to be completed by mid-2026. Full production will be centralized in Brittany by June 2026.
Today, Sabon operates in 10 countries with 193 stores. Between 2019 and 2024, the brand doubled its sales, with online sales now contributing 25% of total revenue. In France, Sabon maintains five boutiques, including four in the Paris region.
The brand currently accounts for 6% of Groupe Rocher's overall business. It stands as one of four strategic pillars within the group, alongside Yves Rocher (53%), Arbonne (13%), and Dr. Pierre Ricaud (2.5%). Groupe Rocher reported €2.2 billion in revenue for 2024, reflecting a 2.4% increase over the previous year.
