Claire’s Accessories to Close Two Coventry Stores as Sales Begin

Two Claire’s Accessories stores in Coventry are set to close permanently as part of a broader restructuring plan, with sales already underway. The closures, which will affect locations at West Orchards Shopping Centre and Broadgate House, are part of a move that will see a total of 145 UK branches shut down by mid-November 2023.

According to administrators from Interpath, the decision follows the company’s recent bankruptcy filing in the United States, where it cited declining foot traffic to physical retail locations as a significant challenge. The good news is that 156 stores across the UK have been sold to investment group Modella Capital, a move that is anticipated to save approximately 1,000 jobs.

Details of the Store Closures

While the two Coventry locations are among those closing, Claire’s has initiated sales with discounts of up to 20% on merchandise. The announcement comes as part of a wider strategy to streamline operations amid ongoing financial difficulties. Out of the 145 branches set to close, 115 are located in the UK, with additional closures in Ireland and the Channel Islands.

Closure dates for the Coventry stores have not yet been disclosed, and the total number of staff affected remains unconfirmed. This development follows a challenging period for Claire’s, which has struggled to maintain sales levels in an evolving retail landscape.

Future of Claire’s in the UK

Despite the closures, the acquisition by Modella Capital provides a glimmer of hope for the brand’s future. The firm previously acquired outlets from WHSmith and rebranded them as TGJones, showcasing its commitment to revitalizing retail operations.

Natasha Harbinson, Managing Director at Interpath, expressed optimism regarding the acquisition, stating, “We are pleased to confirm a sale of the majority of Claire’s UK business and assets, which will ensure this popular brand will continue to trade on high streets up and down the UK.”

As of now, the Claire’s store at Arena Shopping Park in Coventry remains unaffected by the closures, leaving some options still available for local customers.

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