California, September 1, 2025
News Summary
Claire’s, the popular teen accessories chain, has announced the closure of nearly 300 stores nationwide, including 25 in California. This decision follows the company’s second Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing since 2018, as it grapples with significant debt and shifting consumer habits. Liquidation sales are already underway, offering discounts of 70-80%. The closures reflect broader challenges faced by traditional retailers in an increasingly online retail environment, as the company struggles against rising competition and a declining brick-and-mortar market.
California – Claire’s, the well-known teen accessories chain, has announced plans to shutter nearly 300 stores across the United States, which includes 25 locations in California. This significant decision comes as the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection for the second time since 2018, a move that is expected to reshape its retail footprint dramatically.
CEO Chris Cramer pointed to several contributing factors for the store closures, including increased competition, shifting consumer spending habits, and an overall decline in brick-and-mortar retail. This decision reveals the struggles many traditional retailers face amidst the rise of online shopping platforms.
Claire’s has been grappling with considerable debt, including a pressing $500 million loan due in December 2023. The closures will affect a total of 291 locations nationwide, with substantial impacts felt in California, where stores in cities such as Barstow, Buena Park, Chula Vista, and Newport Beach will be among those shutting down. Moreover, 56 locations of its sister retail brand, Icing, will also close, affecting additional areas like Culver City and Palmdale.
As part of the wind-down process, liquidation sales have already commenced, with discounts on merchandise soaring between 70-80%. Sales at most stores will continue until their closures are completed, which is anticipated by September 7, 2025.
Claire’s has a rich history, originally founded in 1961 as a wig store, before transitioning into accessories and ear-piercing services in 1978. Since its inception, the company has reportedly pierced the ears of over 100 million customers and operates over 2,750 stores across 17 countries in North America and Europe.
The current decline of Claire’s appears to highlight a larger trend among mall retailers, many of whom are struggling with the growth of e-commerce platforms like Shein and Temu, as well as other economic challenges. Notably, the company previously emerged from a bankruptcy restructuring in 2018, during which it offloaded $1.9 billion in debt and secured $575 million in new capital.
While the announced store closures are substantial, discussions are ongoing within the company to explore strategic alternatives that may facilitate a rebound for the brand, despite the challenging retail environment. Other retailers with mall-centric models, such as Forever 21 and Foot Locker, have also recently filed for bankruptcy, further underscoring the difficulties faced by traditional shopping formats.
Key Store Closures in California
- Barstow
- Buena Park
- Chula Vista
- Citrus Heights
- City of Commerce
- El Centro
- Emeryville
- Lake Arrowhead
- La Mesa
- Long Beach
- Murrieta
- Newport Beach
- Novato
- Oxnard
- Rancho Cordova
- Rancho Santa Margarita
- Sacramento
- San Dimas
- San Jose
- Tulare
- Tustin
Additional Icing Store Closures in California
- Culver City
- Lakewood
- Palmdale
Current Trends in Retail
The closure of Claire’s stores is not an isolated incident; it reflects the ongoing struggles of brick-and-mortar retailers as they compete with online platforms. This trend has been noted across the retail landscape, with various other major brands facing similar challenges.
FAQ Section
What is Claire’s current situation?
Claire’s has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and is closing nearly 300 stores nationwide, including 25 in California, to address significant debt and changing market conditions.
When will the store closures be completed?
The closures are expected to be finalized by September 7, 2025, with liquidation sales ongoing at various locations.
How many stores does Claire’s currently operate?
Claire’s operates over 2,750 stores across 17 countries, focusing on accessories and ear-piercing services.
Why is Claire’s facing challenges?
Increased competition from online platforms, changing consumer preferences, and a downward trend in brick-and-mortar retail have all contributed to Claire’s struggles.
What was the outcome of Claire’s previous bankruptcy filing?
In 2018, Claire’s emerged from bankruptcy by reducing $1.9 billion in debt and obtaining $575 million in new capital, but it is now facing new financial difficulties.
Key Features of Claire’s Store Closures
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Store Closures | 291 locations nationwide |
| California Closures | 25 stores |
| Closure Deadline | Expected by September 7, 2025 |
| Liquidation Sales | Discounts of 70-80% |
| Company History | Founded in 1961; known for ear-piercing services |
| Current Debt | $500 million loan due by December 2023 |
| Recent Actions | Filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy |
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 bankruptcy
- Business Insider
- Encyclopedia Britannica: bankruptcy
- Fast Company
- Google News: Claire’s store closures
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
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