Claire’s has collapsed into administration in the UK and Ireland, putting more than 2,150 jobs at risk, after it failed to find a suitable buyer.

The fashion accessories chain appointed Will Wright and Chris Pole from Interpath as joint administrators for its UK and European Services businesses on Wednesday (13 August) evening.

The retailer, which is headquartered in Birmingham, trades from 306 stores across the UK and Ireland, employing over 2,150 people.

Interpath UK chief executive Will Wright said: “Claire’s has long been a popular brand across the UK, known not only for its trend-led accessories but also as the go-to destination for ear piercing.

“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.

“This includes exploring the possibility of a sale which would secure a future for this well-loved brand,” Wright added.

Store staff will remain in their positions for the time being, while Claire’s stores continue to operate as usual.

However, customers are no longer able to buy items online or seek refunds for purchases made prior to the administration. Orders that have not been dispatched are expected to be cancelled.

Earlier this week, reports emerged that Claire’s UK store managers had been warned bailiffs may arrive to recover debts following concerns over the retailer’s finances.

It comes after the business had been working with Interpath in recent weeks to draw up a rescue plan and sound out potential investors willing to salvage all or parts of its British operations.

The UK business, which posted a pre-tax loss of £4m in the year to 3 February 2024, is facing an outstanding loan of £355m that must be repaid in December 2026.

Claire’s, which also trades under the Icing fascia, is owned by a consortium including Elliott Management and Monarch Alternative Capital.

The group’s US operations filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in a Delaware court earlier this month, blaming increased competition, shifting consumer spending habits, the ongoing move away from bricks-and-mortar retail and debt obligations.

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