California, September 1, 2025
News Summary
Claire’s, the popular teen accessories retailer, will close 291 stores across the U.S., including 25 in California, due to ongoing financial struggles and changing consumer habits. This move follows the company’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, marking its second bankruptcy in five years. Factors such as the rise of online shopping and a looming $500 million debt have contributed to these closures. Amid liquidation sales offering discounts of up to 80%, Claire’s faces a challenging future in the retail market dominated by online competitors.
California — Claire’s, the renowned teen accessories chain, is set to close nearly 300 stores across the United States, with several locations affected in California. This announcement follows the company’s recent Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, marking Claire’s second bankruptcy in the last five years and highlighting the ongoing struggles of traditional retail in the face of changing consumer habits and fierce competition.
CEO Chris Cramer attributed the closures to several factors, including the rise of online shopping, a significant decline in brick-and-mortar sales, and ongoing financial difficulties that have led to the accumulation of substantial debt. Claire’s currently faces a $500 million loan that is due by December 2023, further complicating its financial recovery.
In total, the company has identified 291 locations nationwide for closure, with 25 of those located in California. Among the stores shutting down in California are sites in cities such as Barstow, Buena Park, Chula Vista, and San Jose, among others. Additionally, 56 Icing stores, a sister brand under the Claire’s umbrella, will also close, affecting locations in Culver City, Lakewood, and Palmdale.
As part of the process, ongoing sales at most stores will continue until the final shutdowns are completed, which are expected to wrap up by September 7, 2025. A recent liquidation sale held at the Emeryville location offered discounts between 70-80%, signaling the urgent efforts to clear inventory before permanent closure.
Founded in 1961 as a wig store, Claire’s transitioned into accessories and ear-piercing services in 1978. The company boasts a record of having pierced over 100 million customers’ ears, establishing itself as a staple in the teen market. Despite its wide reach, with over 2,750 locations in 17 countries across North America and Europe, Claire’s has not been immune to the broader downturn that many mall-based retailers are experiencing.
The retail landscape has significantly changed, with rising online platforms like Shein and Temu drawing customers away from traditional malls. Claire’s previous bankruptcy filing in 2018 involved restructuring strategies where the company managed to offload $1.9 billion of debt and secured approximately $575 million in new capital. Currently, while store closures are in the works, discussions are ongoing to explore strategic alternatives to aid in the company’s rebound.
This trend is part of a larger phenomenon affecting mall retailers, as seen with other brands like Forever 21 and Foot Locker also facing bankruptcy. The challenges of maintaining profitability in an evolving retail environment continue to put pressure on the industry, as more customers shift towards online shopping experiences.
Key Information Summary
- National Store Closures: 291 locations across the U.S., with 25 in California.
- Bankruptcy Filing: Chapter 11, the second since 2018.
- Financial Issues: Significant debt, including a $500 million loan due by December 2023.
- Liquidation Sales: Discounts between 70-80% at numerous locations.
- Industry Trend: Continued struggles for traditional mall retailers amid a shift to online shopping.
FAQ
Why is Claire’s closing stores?
Claire’s is closing stores due to increased competition, changing consumer spending habits, and a decline in brick-and-mortar retail sales.
How many stores will close in California?
A total of 25 Claire’s stores will close in California as part of the nationwide closure plan.
What are Claire’s financial challenges?
Claire’s has accumulated significant debt, including a $500 million loan due by December 2023, contributing to its current bankruptcy filing.
What was Claire’s previous bankruptcy like?
In 2018, Claire’s emerged from a bankruptcy restructuring that involved offloading $1.9 billion in debt and securing around $575 million in new capital.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | Claire’s |
| Number of Store Closures | 291 locations nationwide, 25 in California |
| Type of Bankruptcy | Chapter 11 |
| Debt Due | $500 million by December 2023 |
| Liquidation Sales | Discounts of 70-80% |
| Founded | 1961 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- ABC10
- Wikipedia: Claire’s
- USA Today
- Google Search: Claire’s bankruptcy
- Los Angeles Times
- Google Scholar: Claire’s retail trends
- Business Insider
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Claire’s
- King 5 News
- Google News: Claire’s store closures
- Fast Company
- AL.com
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.
