About Weleda
Weleda: Over a Century of Natural, Holistic Skincare Weleda stands as the world's leading manufacturer of holistic, natural, organic cosmetics and anthroposophic medicines. Founded in Switzerland over a century ago, this pioneering brand combines traditional plant wisdom with modern scientific understanding to create products that work in harmony with nature and the human body. At Grocefully, we help you compare Weleda prices across UK retailers, ensuring you find the best deals on these premium natural skincare products. The Founding Vision The Weleda story begins in 1920, when Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner and Dutch gynaecologist Dr Ita Wegman shared a vision for a new approach to health and healing. Together they founded "Futurum AG" in Arlesheim, Switzerland, and "Der Kommende Tag AG" in Stuttgart, Germany. This collaboration represented the meeting of philosophical insight and medical practice. Rudolf Steiner, founder of the anthroposophic movement, brought a holistic worldview that saw humans as connected to nature and the cosmos. Dr Wegman contributed medical expertise and a commitment to treating the whole person rather than merely symptoms. In 1921, Futurum AG took over the trial laboratory at the Goetheanum (the headquarters of the anthroposophic movement) and merged it with a chemical-pharmaceutical manufacturing laboratory. In August of that year, the company moved to new premises in neighbouring Arlesheim, marking the beginning of Weleda AG as we know it today. That same year saw the establishment of the world's first anthroposophic clinic – the Arlesheim Clinic, also known as the Ita Wegman Anthroposophic Clinic. This clinical foundation ensured that Weleda's products would be developed and tested within a comprehensive healthcare context. Understanding Anthroposophy To appreciate Weleda fully, understanding anthroposophic philosophy provides helpful context. Anthroposophy, developed by Rudolf Steiner, offers a spiritual-scientific worldview that informs Weleda's approach to product development. Anthroposophic medicine doesn't reject conventional medicine but seeks to expand it, considering humans as beings with physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. Illness is viewed as imbalance requiring holistic treatment rather than simply symptom suppression. This philosophy influences Weleda's formulations, which aim to support the body's natural healing processes rather than override them. Products are designed to work with human physiology in ways that respect innate balance and self-regulation. Biodynamic Farming Weleda's commitment to quality begins with ingredient sourcing. The company was an early adopter of biodynamic farming, an organic agricultural approach developed by Rudolf Steiner in 1924. Biodynamic farming goes beyond organic standards, treating the farm as a self-sustaining ecosystem. It considers cosmic rhythms in planting and harvesting, uses specific compost preparations, and aims to enhance soil vitality and plant quality. Weleda maintains its own biodynamic gardens and partners with certified biodynamic farms worldwide. This ensures botanical ingredients are grown in ways that maximise both quality and environmental responsibility. The attention to ingredient sourcing reflects Weleda's belief that product quality depends on the health and vitality of source plants – which in turn depends on the health of the soil and farming practices used to grow them. Unique Ownership Structure Unlike many cosmetics companies, Weleda remains independent of conventional corporate ownership. Approximately 40 percent of the capital and about 80 percent of voting rights are owned by two major shareholders: the General Anthroposophical Society and the Arlesheim Clinic. This ownership by non-profit foundations guarantees Weleda's independence and mission focus. For these shareholders, Weleda is not an investment needing to generate maximum yields. This means the company can prioritise sustainability over profit, making decisions that conventional shareholders might not support. This unusual structure has allowed Weleda to maintain its values and quality standards over more than a century, resisting pressures that have compromised other natural brands as they've sought growth or responded to shareholder demands. Early International Expansion Weleda expanded internationally remarkably early in its history. The British Weleda Co. Ltd. was founded in 1924, just three years after the parent company's establishment. Other early subsidiaries included Handelsonderneming Weleda in the Netherlands (1926) and The American Arlesheim Laboratories (1926). This early internationalisation reflected both demand for Weleda products and the global nature of the anthroposophic movement. Communities around the world who followed Steiner's teachings wanted access to medicines and cosmetics developed according to these principles. Today, Weleda's medicines and natural cosmetics can be found in over 50 countries, with subsidiaries in 20 countries. The company employs around 2,000 full-time employees worldwide, of which approximately 70% are women. The Weleda Product Range Weleda offers an extensive range of natural cosmetics and anthroposophic medicines, organised around specific needs and ingredient stories. Skin Food Perhaps Weleda's most famous product, Skin Food has achieved cult status among natural beauty enthusiasts. This intensively nourishing cream provides rich moisture for dry, rough skin anywhere on the body. Originally formulated in 1926, Skin Food has remained essentially unchanged for nearly a century – testimony to its effectiveness and appeal. The rich formula contains plant extracts including chamomile, calendula, and rosemary in a base of beeswax and natural oils. The Skin Food range has expanded to include lighter versions for different needs whilst maintaining the signature intensive nourishment of the original. Body Oils Weleda's body oils represent another signature category. Various formulations address different needs, from relaxing evening massage to invigorating morning body care. Popular oils include Arnica Massage Oil for muscle relief, Lavender Relaxing Body Oil for evening relaxation, and Citrus Refreshing Body Oil for energising morning routines. These oils use cold-pressed carrier oils and essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances, delivering aromatherapy benefits alongside skin nourishment. Baby Care Weleda Baby products have earned devoted following among parents seeking natural options. The range includes calendula-based products particularly suited to sensitive baby skin. Baby Calendula Bath, Body Lotion, and Nappy Change Cream form a complete baby care routine using gentle, natural ingredients. The use of calendula (marigold) provides mild, soothing properties appropriate for delicate skin. Parents appreciate knowing exactly what touches their baby's skin, and Weleda's transparent ingredient sourcing provides reassurance. Face Care Organised by skin type and age, Weleda facial ranges address various needs through natural formulations. Pomegranate products target mature skin, harnessing the antioxidant power of this fruit. Almond products suit sensitive skin requiring extra-gentle care. Wild Rose products address normal to combination skin with balancing formulations. Each range provides cleansers, moisturisers, and treatments using plant ingredients selected for specific skin needs. Oral Care Weleda oral care products extend the brand's natural philosophy to dental hygiene. Toothpastes use natural ingredients including mineral salts and plant extracts rather than synthetic detergents and fluoride. Salt Toothpaste and Calendula Toothpaste offer alternatives for those seeking natural oral care options. The 2025 Brand Refresh In 2025, Weleda unveiled a renewed brand identity – the first comprehensive modernisation of the brand's appearance in its 124-year history. This "once in a century" refresh updates Weleda's visual presentation whilst maintaining connections to heritage. The new logo remains true to its anthroposophic-inspired typography whilst evolving into a finer, more contemporary design. The changes reflect modern aesthetics without abandoning the distinctive character that loyal customers recognise. Significantly, the tagline has changed from "Since 1921" to "Natural Science" or "Swiss Natural Science." This shift emphasises Weleda's expertise and heritage rather than merely its age, whilst reinforcing Swiss credentials. The rebrand represents confidence in Weleda's continued relevance. Rather than chasing trends, the company has modernised presentation whilst maintaining the substance that built its reputation. Certifications and Standards Weleda products carry NATRUE certification, verifying natural and organic credentials through independent audit. NATRUE sets strict standards for natural and organic cosmetics, providing consumer assurance. The company also holds various environmental certifications for manufacturing facilities and practices. UEBT (Union for Ethical BioTrade) membership demonstrates commitment to ethical sourcing. These certifications provide independent verification of claims that might otherwise rely solely on brand trust. Comparing Weleda Prices Across UK Retailers One of the key benefits of shopping for Weleda products through Grocefully is the ability to compare prices across UK retailers. As a premium natural brand, Weleda products command higher prices than conventional alternatives, making price comparison particularly valuable. Weleda products are available through various UK channels including Boots, Holland & Barrett, independent health stores, and some supermarkets. Online retailers including Amazon and specialist natural beauty sites also stock the range. Prices for the same products can vary significantly between retailers, and promotional offers provide periodic savings opportunities. Given Weleda's premium positioning, identifying good prices can deliver meaningful savings for regular users. Why Choose Weleda? Several factors distinguish Weleda from other natural cosmetics brands. Century-plus heritage demonstrates sustained commitment rather than recent market opportunism. Weleda was championing natural ingredients long before "clean beauty" became a marketing trend. Independence through non-profit ownership protects against the compromises that commercial pressures often create. Weleda can maintain standards without shareholders demanding cost cuts. Biodynamic sourcing represents commitment to ingredient quality that few competitors match. Control over ingredient cultivation ensures quality from seed to formula. Anthroposophic formulation philosophy provides coherent approach to product development rather than simply avoiding synthetics. Products are designed to work holistically, not just to be natural. Conclusion Weleda represents a century-long commitment to natural, holistic skincare and health products. From its Swiss founding by Rudolf Steiner and Dr Ita Wegman to its current status as the world's leading manufacturer of anthroposophic cosmetics, the brand has maintained its principles whilst evolving for modern consumers. Whether you're seeking the intensive nourishment of Skin Food, gentle baby care, or sophisticated facial products, Weleda offers natural options backed by genuine expertise and ethical sourcing. By comparing Weleda prices across UK retailers through Grocefully, you can find the best deals on these premium natural products. Explore Weleda products on Grocefully today and discover how smart shopping can help you embrace natural skincare without paying more than necessary.