Claire UK Enters Administration, Putting Over 2,150 Jobs at Risk.
All 306 UK and Ireland stores will remain open for now as administrators seek a buyer, but online shopping has been suspended.
The future of popular high-street jewellery chain Claire’s has been cast into doubt after its UK business officially entered administration, placing more than 2,150 jobs in jeopardy.
Insolvency specialists Interpath confirmed on Wednesday that they have been appointed as joint administrators for Claire’s Accessories UK Ltd. The move directly impacts the company’s 306 stores across the United Kingdom and Ireland and follows a turbulent period for the brand’s global operations.
This development in the UK comes just a week after the chain’s US-based parent company filed for bankruptcy protection, signalling significant financial distress throughout the wider organisation.
For now, administrators have stated their intention to continue trading while they evaluate the company’s prospects. This means all physical stores in the UK and Ireland will remain open for business, and staff will continue in their roles. However, in a significant change for customers, the ability to place orders through the company’s website has been suspended.
The immediate goal is to stabilise the business and explore a potential sale to secure its future.
Will Wright, UK CEO of Interpath, commented on the strategy moving forward. “Over the coming weeks, we will endeavour to continue to operate all stores as a going concern for as long as we can, while we assess options for the Company,” he said.
He added, “This includes exploring the possibility of a sale which would secure a future for this well-loved brand.”
Headquartered in Birmingham, Claire’s has long been a fixture in shopping centres and on high streets. It is widely known for its trend-led, affordable accessories and has established itself as a popular destination for children’s and teenagers’ ear piercing services.
The coming weeks will be critical in determining the fate of the brand in the UK and Ireland. The hope for its employees and loyal customer base is that a buyer can be found to take on the business as a going concern, preserving the brand and saving thousands of jobs.
