Major retailer with 156 branches across the UK announces another store closure | UK | News
A high street retailer has closed another store in the UK as it continues to close stores due to ongoing financial turmoil.
Claire’s closed its store in York city centre, which was quickly transferred to a new gift shop selling gifts for tourists visiting the historic city. The closure comes as the fashion accessories chain undergoes major restructuring after its UK business went into administration earlier this year.
The retailer has faced increasing challenges in recent months. Claire’s UK operations went back into administration on 26 January 2026 after Modella Capital’s rescue deal in late 2025 failed to stabilize the business.
Kroll’s managers now oversee the company’s remaining stores.
As of February 2026, the chain is in the process of closing approximately 145 approved stores across the UK, many of which are holding discount sales before closing permanently.
These include locations in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, Cardiff and Belfast, among dozens of other towns and cities.
*** Ensure our latest headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us your Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as a Preferred Source in your Google search settings. ***
A further 156 stores, which were part of the initial rescue plan but face an uncertain future if a buyer cannot be found, are considered to be at risk. These branches continue trading for now while administrators explore options.
York’s closure brings with it another set of changes to the city’s high street, with other retailers also set to close their doors.
Cello by Collectables on Church Street and German shoe chain Deichmann on Davygate are among the latest stores to close in the city.
The collapse of Claire’s UK arm reflects wider pressures on the retail industry, including rising costs, falling footfall and a shift towards online shopping. More closures are expected in the coming months unless a new investor steps in.
