Claire's Accessories Enters Administration Again, Risking 1,000 Jobs

Claire's Accessories, a longstanding high street chain known for jewelry and ear piercings, has entered administration for the second time in less than two years, placing more than 1,000 jobs and around 150 stores across the UK and Ireland at risk. The insolvency proceedings began on January 26, 2026, when Kroll Advisory Ltd appointed Philip Dakin, Benjamin Wiles, and Janet Burt as joint administrators for Claire's UK and Irish operations, known as CAUKI Ltd.

The company filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators in the days following Christmas 2025, signaling deepening financial distress. Administrators confirmed that Claire's would continue trading during the process, allowing stores to remain open temporarily while efforts are made to restructure or find buyers. This development affects outlets nationwide, including locations in Wales such as Bangor, Bridgend, and Cardiff, as well as 11 stores in Northern Ireland.

Claire's is owned by Modella Capital, which earlier this month also placed its sister retailer, The Original Factory Shop, into administration. Both chains were acquired through emergency deals in 2025 after previous collapses: Claire's fell into...