Claire's Accessories has shut all its 154 high street shops across the UK and Ireland, delivering another significant blow to the retail sector. The high street giant will make 1,300 workers redundant, bosses confirmed.
Administration and Closure Details
The closure comes after private equity owner Modella Capital hired Kroll to oversee the administration earlier this year. A spokesman for Kroll stated: 'As of April 27, all Claire's standalone stores in UK and Ireland have ceased trading. All store employees have been advised of redundancy.'
The move does not affect the retailer's 356 concessions, including many located inside Asda stores, nor its head office operations. The spokesman added: 'We understand an interested party is in discussion with a number of landlords with a view to taking new leases for some of the sites.'
Impact on the High Street
This development represents yet another challenge for Britain's struggling high streets, which have faced mounting pressure from rising costs, changing consumer habits, and the shift to online shopping. The loss of 1,300 jobs adds to a growing list of retail redundancies across the country.
Claire's, known for its fashion accessories and jewelry, has been a staple on UK high streets for decades. The closure of all standalone stores marks the end of an era for the brand in its current form, though its concession model may continue to provide a presence in supermarkets.
This is a breaking news story. More details will follow as they become available.
