One of the UK’s most beloved stores is closing down. Claire’s Accessories is closing down 154 stores, which also means 1,300 staff will be made redundant.
Nothing brings back memories of childhood like walking into a Claire’s, as it’s affectionately known, with its colourful jewellery hanging from every crevice of their stores. From getting your first piercing to buying matching friendship bracelets with your friends, it has been a staple in UK high streets for decades.
However, the company have faced a lot of competition to emerging budget brands like Shein, as well as failing to keep up with other competitors like TikTok shop and Amazon who have become increasingly popular with the teenage demographic.
When will Claire’s Accessories stores close?
Claire’s had already fallen into administration earlier this year, in January, after previously being rescued by a deal that saved 1,300 jobs at the time.
The chain also filed for bankruptcy in the US last year, with other European markets following suit.
Administrators Kroll, who have been appointed to handle proceedings, announced earlier this week that Claire’s closed their final location yesterday (27 April).
The Guardian reports that among the latest store closures are: Cheshire Oaks, Sutton Coldfield, Stockport, Watford and Bangor, Swindon, Romford, Oxford and Chester.
What happens now?
But for those of us who are devastated to find out they’ve missed their chance to grab their last ever multi-coloured jewellery, need not fear. Although all standalone stores are now closed, 350 concessions will still be open within other, larger stores, including many Asda locations.
