Claires, a popular retailer of fashion accessories, has shut down its 154 stores in the UK and Ireland, resulting in the loss of approximately 1,300 jobs, according to administrators.

Kroll, the administrators, confirmed that all remaining Claires stores have stopped operations, and employees have been informed about the layoffs. However, concession outlets and the company’s European stores will continue to operate for the time being.

In a statement, Kroll stated that as of April 27th, all standalone Claires stores in the UK and Ireland have closed. Employees at these stores have been informed about their redundancy. Discussions are ongoing with a potential buyer who is considering taking new leases for some of the locations.

Last year in September, Modella Capital, a Mayfair-based finance firm that acquired WH Smith’s high street business, purchased 156 Claires stores in the UK and Ireland. While acknowledging that some closures and job losses were inevitable, Modella Capital aimed to preserve over 1,000 jobs in the region.

However, just a few months later in January of this year, the UK division of Claires went into administration. Modella Capital attributed the company’s struggles to challenging retail conditions, including government policies that have adversely impacted businesses like Claires.

There are concerns surrounding TJ Jones, the rebranded WH Smith high street business, as reports suggest it is preparing for a significant restructuring that may involve multiple store closures.

It’s important to note that the closure of Claires’ standalone stores does not affect its 356 concessions, which include locations in Asda stores, and the company’s head office.

Fashion expert Priya Raj highlighted a shift in consumer preferences, noting that contemporary trends favor minimal and curated jewelry styles over the traditional colorful and novelty designs for which Claires was known.

Recent reports indicate that several Claires stores have closed in various locations in recent weeks, such as Cheshire Oaks, Sutton Coldfield, Stockport, Watford, and Bangor.