California, September 2, 2025
News Summary
Claire’s Holdings LLC has announced the closure of more than 290 stores across the United States as part of a restructuring plan following its recent bankruptcy. The closures will primarily impact Claire’s and Icing locations, with most shutting down by September 2025. This decision comes after the company’s financial struggles, marked by two bankruptcy filings and significant debt. Although the closures will lead to a reduced retail footprint, 830 stores will continue to operate as the company aims to stabilize and adapt to the changing retail environment.
California – Claire’s Holdings LLC has announced the imminent closure of over 290 stores nationwide, part of a restructuring plan following its recent bankruptcy and sale to private equity firm Ames Watson for $104 million. This decision comes as the company attempts to stabilize after facing significant financial challenges.
The closures will affect both Claire’s and Icing locations throughout the United States, with the majority scheduled to shut down by September 7, 2025. A court document filed on August 25 specifies the closure of 235 Claire’s stores and 56 Icing locations, signaling a significant reduction in the brand’s retail footprint.
While this extensive closure is underway, a total of 830 stores will continue to operate, including 785 Claire’s and 45 Icing locations, allowing the company to maintain some presence in the market post-restructuring. States most affected by the store closures include California with 25 closures, followed by New York (18), Illinois (16), and Pennsylvania (16).
Claire’s had previously warned it might need to close over 1,100 stores if a suitable buyer was not found. The company’s financial struggles are not new; it originally filed for bankruptcy in March 2018, citing ongoing issues within the retail environment such as changing consumer preferences and intensified competition.
Founded in 1961, Claire’s initially started as a wig store and expanded into jewelry and ear-piercing services by 1978. Over the years, it has become a staple in American malls and has provided ear-piercing services to more than 100 million customers. Before the recent sale, Claire’s managed a network of over 2,300 retail locations across 17 countries, with a notable presence in Walmart and as mall kiosks.
Despite emerging from its first bankruptcy in December 2018 with approximately $1.9 billion in debt eradicated, Claire’s struggled to rebound fully. The situation worsened, leading to a second bankruptcy filing on August 6, 2025. Contributing factors included tariffs, rising interest rates, and an ongoing shift in consumer behavior away from brick-and-mortar retail. Currently, the company faces a total debt of $500 million due by December 2025.
CEO Chris Cramer emphasized the challenging nature of this decision to close stores, describing it as a necessary step in adapting to the current retail landscape. The company is actively exploring strategic alternatives and remains engaged in discussions with potential partners and investors in hopes of fostering a more sustainable future.
As the retail market continues to evolve, Claire’s is working diligently to navigate through these turbulent times, balancing the need to restructure its business model while still focusing on retaining its brand legacy.
FAQ
What is the reason behind Claire’s store closures?
Claire’s is closing over 290 stores as part of a restructuring plan following bankruptcy and competition challenges in the retail market.
How many stores will Claire’s remain open?
A total of 830 stores will continue to operate, maintaining a presence in the market while they restructure.
When will the store closures be completed?
The majority of closures are expected to be finalized by September 7, 2025.
What kind of services does Claire’s offer?
Claire’s is known for its jewelry and ear-piercing services, having served over 100 million customers since its inception.
What financial challenges has Claire’s faced in recent years?
Claire’s has faced significant financial struggles, leading to two bankruptcy filings and a total debt of $500 million due by December 2025.
How did Claire’s evolve over the years?
Founded as a wig store in 1961, Claire’s expanded into jewelry and ear-piercing by 1978 and became an American retail staple.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Stores Closing | Over 290 |
| Closure Deadline | By September 7, 2025 |
| States Affected Most | California (25), New York (18), Illinois (16), Pennsylvania (16) |
| Total Debt | $500 million due by December 2025 |
| Initial Bankruptcy Filing | March 2018 |
| Second Bankruptcy Filing | August 6, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Fox LA: Claire’s Bankruptcy and Store Closures
- Wikipedia: Claire’s
- AL.com: Claire’s 2nd Bankruptcy News
- Google Search: Claire’s bankruptcy
- Business Insider: Claire’s Bankruptcy History
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Retailing
- Bloomberg: Claire’s Second Bankruptcy
- Google News: Claire’s closure
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
