A major high street retailer has closed another UK store as it continues to shut its stores amid ongoing financial turmoil.
Claire’s has shut its York city centre store, with the unit quickly taken over by a new souvenir shop selling gifts aimed at tourists visiting the historic city. The closure comes as the fashion accessories chain undergoes widespread restructuring following the collapse of its UK business into administration earlier this year.
The retailer has faced mounting challenges in recent months. After a rescue deal by Modella Capital in late 2025 failed to stabilise the business, Claire’s UK operations entered administration again on 26 January 2026.
Administrators from Kroll are now overseeing the company’s remaining stores.
As of February 2026, the chain is in the process of closing around 145 confirmed stores across the UK, many of which are running clearance sales ahead of permanent closure.
These include locations in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, Cardiff and Belfast, among dozens of other towns and cities.
*** Ensure our latest news headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as Preferred Source in your Google search settings. ***
A further 156 stores are considered at risk, having been part of the initial rescue plan but now facing an uncertain future unless a buyer is found. These branches are continuing to trade for now while administrators explore options.
The York closure adds to a series of changes on the city’s high street, with other retailers also preparing to shut their doors.
Cello by Collectables on Church Street and German footwear chain Deichmann on Davygate are among the latest stores set to close in the city.
The collapse of Claire’s UK arm reflects wider pressures on the retail sector, including rising costs, falling footfall and a shift towards online shopping. Unless a new investor steps in, more closures are expected in the coming months.
