Uncertain times for Claire's Accessories stores as high street fashion retailer looks to restructure
Claire's Accessories stores in the West Midlands face an uncertain future as the high street fashion retailer looks to restructure.
The well-known accessories brand has about 280 stores across the UK, including a raft of outlets in the West Midlands including Wolverhampton, West Bromwich, Walsall, Merry Hill, Birmingham New Street, Birmingham’s Bullring, Stafford, Hanley, Sutton Coldfield, Solihull, Resorts World Birmingham and Lichfield.
The firm has reportedly appointed restructuring consultants Interpath Advisory to explore a potential sale and the restructuring of its UK operations, a move which could lead to around a third of the fashion brand's stores closing and the loss of more than 1,500 jobs.
The chain has not confirmed which locations could be at risk of closure and Interpath has declined to comment.
Speculation about the future of Claire’s comes as the company battles mounting debts, including a £355m repayment which is due in December 2026, according to reports.
One retail industry executive, speaking to Sky News, said: “It is likely we’ll see a significant trimming of the store estate, potentially up to a third of locations, in an attempt to protect the core business and make the UK arm investable.”
Founded in 1961 and headquartered in Illinois, Claire’s has long been a popular go to fashion store for teenagers and younger children due to its affordable jewellery, hair accessories and ear piercing services.
It currently operates around 2,750 stores across Europe and North America.
