Claire's closes 154 stores with loss of 1,300 jobs

All Claire's standalone stores in the UK and Ireland have closed due to financial difficulties, with 154 locations shutting down and over 1,300 employees facing redundancy. Administrators Kroll confirmed the closures, although concessions and European stores will remain operational.

The brand struggled against competition from online retailers like Shein and Temu and changing consumer preferences. Kroll noted, "As of 27 April, all Claire's standalone stores in UK and Ireland have ceased trading." The previous owners cited "alarming" low Christmas sales and a challenging trading climate as key factors in the administration.