US-based private investment firm Ames Watson has acquired Claire’s North American business for $140m. 

Claire’s, founded in 1974 and known for youth-focused fashion accessories, jewellery and cosmetics, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in August 2025. 

The privately held investment company stated that it will “modernise and revitalise” the embattled US retailer. 

Lawrence Berger, partner and co-founder at Ames Watson, stated: "Claire's is one of those rare brands that defines a stage of life - old enough to buy your first lip gloss, but still young enough to believe it could change your world.   

"The passion for this brand has been overwhelming, and we're eager to include the community as we move forward." 

The investment company engaged RCS Real Estate Advisors to carry out due diligence and negotiation with landlords.  

 RCS secured preliminary agreements with hundreds of property owners across the US and Canada, covering the majority of Claire’s regional portfolio, and finalised agreements for more than 800 stores, with the potential to reach 950. 

Ames Watson, which bought headwear retailer Lids in 2019, said it will concentrate on exclusivity, customisation and cultural relevance for Claire’s. 

"Every turnaround we've done begins with people," said Tom Ripley, partner and co-founder at Ames Watson.  

"Claire's has an incredibly passionate field team - many with 20 years or more in these stores - and their loyalty will be the foundation of this next chapter." 

In August 2025, Claire’s filed for administration in the UK and Ireland amid declining sales and intense competition pressures. 

UK-based financial advisory and restructuring company Interpath’s Will Wright and Chris Pole were appointed as joint administrators.