The future of fashion accessory retailer Claire’s in the UK has been partially secured after Modella Capital agreed to acquire more than half of its business and assets.
After acquiring the British high street business WH Smith in June 2025, Modella is now set to purchase 156 Claire’s stores for an undisclosed sum.
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This deal will include stores throughout the UK and Ireland, securing approximately 1,000 jobs.
Claire’s entered administration in the UK and Ireland on 13 August 2025, after its parent company Claire’s Holdings filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the US.
The administrator Interpath confirmed the deal, which provides some stability amid ongoing uncertainty, as 145 Claire’s stores remain under assessment.
The 145 locations, employing a similar number of staff, will continue operations while further options are considered.
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By GlobalDataInterpath’s UK CEO and joint administrator Will Wright stated: “We’d like to express our sincere thanks to the thousands of Claire’s dedicated employees, as well as suppliers and other key stakeholders, who have supported us throughout the administration process.
“Our intention is to continue to trade the remaining portfolio of stores for as long as we can, while we explore the options available.”
Before entering administration, Claire’s operated 301 stores across the UK and Ireland, known for its ear-piercing services and fashion accessories.
Interpath managing director Natasha Harbinson stated: “Following an agreement between Modella Capital and Ames Watson in the US in relation to the Claire’s brand, 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.
“In addition, we are also pleased to have secured a sale of the Claire’s business in Switzerland. Discussions with other interested parties continue in relation to the Claire’s entities in France, Italy and Poland.”
In September 2025, Ames Watson acquired Claire’s North American business for $140m.
The privately held investment company has stated that it will modernise and revitalise the embattled US retailer.
