The Claire’s accessories shop at the Merseyway Shopping Centre in Stockport has officially closed its doors as part of a nationwide shutdown. The retailer ceased trading across all 154 of its standalone stores in the UK and Ireland on Monday 27 April 2026, a move that has resulted in over 1,300 staff members being notified of redundancy.
The closure follows a period of significant financial instability for the company, which entered administration twice within the last 12 months. After first appointing administrators in August 2025, the business was rescued by the investment firm Modella Capital. However, the retailer was placed into administration again in January 2026 following poor Christmas trading results.
Management at the firm attributed the collapse to a difficult environment for high street retailers, specifically highlighting rising staffing costs linked to increases in employer National Insurance Contributions. Additionally, the brand faced intense competition from online fast fashion retailers and changing consumer preferences, as teenage shoppers shift away from the colourful, novelty jewellery that the chain was traditionally known for.
Despite the nationwide closures, there is a possibility that some locations may eventually reopen. French entrepreneur Julien Jarjoura, who currently manages the brand’s operations in several European countries, is reportedly in discussions with administrators and landlords to acquire the UK and Ireland business, with the goal of potentially saving around 50 stores.
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