The Business Exchange Bath & Somerset Issue 13: Autumn 2019 | Page 8

BUSINESS NEWS
A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR GOODBODY WELLNESS
A company on the outskirts of Bath is leading the way with one of the biggest wellness
products to hit the UK in 2019, CBD oil (otherwise known as cannabidiol).
Sativa Group PLC, which describes itself as the UK’s
‘first medicinal cannabis investment vehicle’, is based in
Beckington and has opened its flagship store under the
brand of Goodbody Wellness, in the heart of Bath.
Based on Broad Street, Goodbody Wellness sells over 50
products, including coffee, skincare, bath bombs and vapes
all made from CBD oil, known to contain high amounts of
active, therapeutic cannabinoids.
The World Health Organisation says that CBD oil is
“generally well tolerated with a good safety profile”, and that
it may be able to offer relief for those suffering a number
of ailments including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Multiple
Sclerosis (MS), Cancer, Diabetes, general pain and anxiety.
Whilst CBD use is a well-established part of popular
health culture in other parts of the world, such as America,
Canada and other parts of Europe it is little known or
understood in the UK and is only just starting to be taken
seriously by the medical profession.
We met Chris Jones, Managing Director of Goodbody
Wellness to find out more about CBD and its plans for UK
domination.
Tell us more about CBD
CBD derived solely from the Hemp plant, is legal in the
UK and offers a great way to maintain or support healthy
bodies. Many of our customers keep returning to us because
they want a natural alternative and CBD oil is a powerful
antioxidant whose strength is greater than that of vitamin C
and E.
Is there any red tape around selling CBD oil?
The most challenging aspect of selling CBD in the UK
currently is that we cannot make reference to medical claims
or suggestions. We constantly have to reiterate that our
CBD products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or
prevent any disease. Neither should our products be used
as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and healthy
lifestyle. What we can guarantee is that the human body
contains a little-known network (or CBD receptors) called
the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). This system found in our
bodies comprises of receptors that interact exclusively with
cannabinoids like that of CBD. Because endocannabinoids
8
THE BUSINESS EXCHANGE 2019
are present throughout numerous functions of the body,
research suggests that they boost the maintenance of
those functions. CBD not only helps to maintain vital health
functions it also helps to restore homeostasis, or balance
within the body.
Our CBD bath bombs help you to relax and work similarly
to other topical CBD treatments (like lotions), in supporting
wellbeing. We know that having a bath has several great
benefits such as lowering your blood pressure, reducing
stress, boosting your mood, and helping your breathing. Add
the effects of CBD and essential oils and our bath bombs will
help to relax one’s muscles, skin and mind.
Why did you decide to bring CBD to the UK?
We know that consumers are really excited about CBD,
but they have many questions, so we decided that a retail
presence is the best way to interact with our customers in
order to answer those burning questions. Our staff are highly
trained and are there to demonstrate our products and offer
our customers a test before they buy. Our CBD, coffee for
example, is absolutely delicious and is always a ‘big hit’ with
our customers.
Why was Bath chosen for the first store?
The company’s head office is in Beckington, which is only
8 miles from Bath, so it’s convenient to have the first store
nearby. However, we actually felt that Bath has exactly the
right demographic for our products as a well-respected city
of culture and excellence.
Are there plans for future stores?
Our first stores are in Bath, Cirencester, and Clifton in
Bristol and we will launch a national franchise campaign
from that initial footprint. The interest we have already had
from potential franchisees is very promising as it has been
recognised that we have a fantastic brand, great products
and a wonderful system in order to support a national
franchise network.
What’s the ambition for the brand?
Geremy Thomas, founder of stock market-listed medicinal
cannabis and cannabidiol (CBD) group Sativa, wants to see
the launch of around 100 Goodbody Wellness shops across
the UK within two years. This would look to create around 400
retail jobs in the first two years, with all employees receiving
training on CBD and products. We want to become the most
trusted CBD retailer in the UK.
Visit Goodbody Wellness on 7, Broad Street,
Bath, BA1 5LJ or find out more online at:
www.goodbodywellness.co.uk
Pictured above: Chris Jones MD of Goodbody Wellness and his team