Claire’s is planning a comeback to the retail scene by preparing to launch 50 new stores, following the closure of all 154 of its UK branches. The closures, announced by administrators at Kroll, will result in around 1,300 job losses. However, Claire’s 356 concessions, including those in Asda stores, and its head office are not affected.
In a recent update, it has been reported that Claire’s might reopen four to 10 stores per week starting from June. Julien Jarjoura, who operates Claire’s shops in several European countries, is in the process of securing new leases with UK landlords to bring the brand back to life. The new stores will be self-funded by Mr. Jarjoura and will feature ear-piercing services alongside revamped jewelry and accessories ranging from £1.90 to over £100.
Mr. Jarjoura, overseeing approximately 240 Claire’s stores across Europe, expressed his determination to revive the brand, stating that it was on the verge of extinction. Claire’s, established in the US and introduced in the UK in 1996, faced challenges from online competitors in recent times.
Modella Capital, the private equity owner, enlisted Kroll for administration earlier this year due to a decline in Christmas trading. This marked Claire’s second administration within a short period, initially being acquired by Modella from administration in September last year. The brand had previously shut down 145 stores, resulting in around 1,000 job losses during the prior administration.
Kroll’s spokesman confirmed the closure of all standalone Claire’s stores in the UK and Ireland, with employees being informed about redundancies. Discussions are underway with potential parties interested in leasing some of the sites.
Kat Cereda, a consumer expert at Which?, provided advice to customers with pending orders at Claire’s, suggesting options for seeking refunds or compensation through credit card protections or contacting the administrators directly.