A major high street retailer has closed another UK store as it continues to close its stores amid the ongoing financial turmoil.
Claire’s has closed its York City Centre store.
A new souvenir shop immediately took over the unit, selling gifts for tourists visiting the historic city. The closure comes as the fashion accessories chain undergoes a comprehensive restructuring after its UK business collapsed into administration earlier this year.
The retailer has faced increasing challenges recently. Claire’s UK operations again entered administration on 26 January 2026, after a rescue deal by Modella Capital in late 2025 failed to stabilise the business.
Kroll’s administrators are now overseeing the company’s remaining stores.
By February 2026, the chain is in the process of closing approximately 145 confirmed stores across the UK, many of which are running clearance sales ahead of permanent closure.
These include London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, Cardiff and Belfast, as well as dozens of other towns and cities.
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The initial rescue plan included another 156 stores considered at risk, but their future remains uncertain unless they find a buyer. Business is still continuing in these branches while administrators are looking for alternatives.
The closure of York adds to a series of changes on the city’s high streets, with other retailers also preparing to close their doors.
Cello by Collectables on Church Street and German footwear chain Deichmann on Davygate are among the latest stores to close in the city.
The collapse of Claire’s UK branch reflects wider pressures on the retail sector, including rising costs, declining customer numbers and the shift to online shopping. We expect more closures in the coming months unless a new investor emerges.
