Jane Cundiff said that move was “a shame”, adding: “It’s been here so long but I think as long as they’re still employing people they’re still doing their products which are very good.”

Roger Stevens said: “I’m shocked, really. The Body Shop has been part of this town for the last 40 years. I’m very surprised.”

A spokesperson for Arun District Council said it was “a sad loss to Littlehampton, but no reflection on the town”.

A spokesperson for The Body Shop said: “We want to thank the people of Littlehampton for all their love and support over the years.

“We’re proud to have been part of the community there and have been touched by all the kind words of encouragement from the locals in recent weeks.”

The Body Shop was founded in Kensington Gardens in 1976 by the late environmental and human rights campaigner Dame Anita Roddick.

Dame Anita and her husband Gordon sold the business to French beauty giant L’Oreal in 2006.

The new headquarters will be based at the Plus X Innovation Hub, close to the University of Brighton.