Sabon to close main manufacturing, logistics operations in Israel; stores expected to remain open

Israeli-founded maker of natural bath and body products Sabon, owned by French cosmetics giant Yves Rocher, is planning to close its main operations in the country, putting the jobs of more than 270 workers at risk.

Sabon says it will shutter its manufacturing plant in Kiryat Gat by June 2026, unless ongoing advanced negotiations for the sale of the factory with a potential unnamed buyer materialize.

Starting in early 2026, the producer of soap and cosmetic products will also gradually close its Israel-based global headquarters, while its logistics center is expected to close in October of this year, “due to the expiration of the lease agreement at the facility.”

In Israel, Sabon employs 212 unionized employees, while around 60 employees work under individual contracts. Globally, Sabon has about 1,000 employees and operates 180 stores in 14 countries.

“These changes to Sabon’s operations in Israel stem from the fact that Sabon currently operates two manufacturing centers — one in Israel and one in France — each handling different production processes,” Sabon says. “This division has created redundancies and business complexities.”

“Under these circumstances, it was decided to consolidate all manufacturing activities in France, which consequently entails changes to other business segments in Israel,” Sabon adds.

Simultaneously, Yves Rocher-owned Sabon is in advanced discussions with Israel’s Golf Group regarding the sale of its online and retail operations, which comprise 22 stores spread across the country, and are expected to continue to operate.