Accessories chain Claire’s has warned store managers bailiffs may turn up to recover debts following the collapse of its US business.
The retailer, which filed a Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the US last week, informed UK employees not to allow bailiffs entering the stores to take anything and to report their presence to management, Retail Week reported.
A source close to the business said staff had been informed the retailer was unable to accept gift cards as payment and that they must have their hours pre-approved by managers.
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The news follows reports that Claire’s UK business, which trades from nearly 300 stores nationwide, may be on the brink of administration after its owners failed to attract a buyer.
It is understood that prospective bidders, which included Lakeland owner Hilco Capital, pulled out of the process given the scale of the chain’s challenges.
Claire’s US owners have been working with Interpath Advisory since last month to explore a sale and possible restructuring options, amid mounting cost pressures. The business is facing a £355m repayment, due in December 2026.
It is understood Interpath is still exploring options for the UK division, with an outcome expected as early as this week.
Interpath has been approached for comment.
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