Sue Harmsworth leaves Espa, following sale to The Hut Group

Sue Harmsworth, founder of spa and skincare brand Espa, is to step down from her role as chief executive this spring. Harmsworth founded Espa in 1993 and has been pivotal in driving it forward over the past 25 years, extending the company’s reach to more than 70 countries.

“The time is now right for me to step away from the brand I love,” said Harmsworth. “This move will enable me to concentrate on my passions for spa, integrative medicine, health and wellbeing, and to develop new partnerships and projects.”

In September, Espa was acquired by online health and beauty retailer The Hut Group (THG) in a deal believed to be worth at least £100m. THG also acquired cult make-up brand Illamasqua in October, in a deal understood to be worth £25m. The group also owns Glossybox, Grow Gorgeous and Mio Skincare.

Harmsworth will be still be involved in other global beauty and spa projects, including continuing with her ongoing advisory on the boards for the Global Wellness Summit and Institute, Wellness for Cancer, Forbes and Bench Global Hotel Investment.