California, August 31, 2025
News Summary
Claire’s Holdings has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy amid $690 million in debt and plans to close 291 stores across the U.S., including 23 locations in California. The retailer is partnering with Ames Watson, a private equity firm, to keep 830 stores operational. Sales in closing locations will end by September 7, 2025. Despite the challenges, Claire’s is focusing on preserving jobs and maintaining vendor relationships while navigating a competitive retail landscape.
California – Claire’s Holdings, a well-known jewelry and fashion accessories retailer, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing $690 million in outstanding debt. This significant financial move comes as the company announced plans to close 291 stores nationwide, including 23 locations in California.
The bankruptcy filing took place earlier this month in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court located in Delaware. Claire’s had faced financial difficulties before, having previously filed for bankruptcy in 2018. The company has since struggled to recover from the fallout of that filing.
In a bid to navigate through the financial challenges, Claire’s has reached an agreement with Ames Watson, a private equity firm, to acquire its North American business operations. Under this agreement, Ames Watson will maintain the operation of the remaining 830 stores and will compensate the retailer with $104 million in cash and an additional $36 million seller note for business assets.
In a significant shift for the struggling retailer, Claire’s has paused the liquidation process in many of its stores but intends to continue closing certain locations across North America. According to executives, the decision to file bankruptcy was driven by intense competition, shifting consumer spending habits, and an ongoing move away from traditional brick-and-mortar retail.
Despite the impending closures, Claire’s aims to preserve as many jobs as possible and maintain relationships with vendors and landlords. The company operates over 2,750 stores in 17 countries, in addition to 190 Icing stores in North America. Claire’s has identified more than 800 stores that will not close immediately, allowing them to continue business operations.
All sales in the closing locations are set to conclude by September 7, 2025. Claire’s has also initiated a 50% off store closing sale at select locations, appealing to bargain shoppers and loyal customers. Gift cards and C. Club Rewards can be redeemed in select stores until August 29, 2025, providing customers a window to utilize their rewards amidst the closures.
The specific California locations scheduled for closure include:
- Oxnard, The Collection At Riverpark
- Emeryville, Bay Street
- Rancho Cordova, Rancho Cordova Town Center
- San Jose, Valley Fair Mall
- Newport Beach, Fashion Island
- Tustin, District At Tustin Legacy
- La Mesa, Grossmont Shopping Center
- City Of Commerce, Citadel Outlets
- El Centro, Imperial Valley Mall
- Citrus Heights, Sunrise Mall
- Tulare, Tulare Outlet Center
- Long Beach, The Pike Outlets
- Rancho Santa Margarita, Rancho Santa Margarita
- Lake Arrowhead, Lake Arrowhead Village
- Barstow, Barstow Outlet Center
- San Dimas, San Dimas Marketplace
- Murrieta, Murrieta Town Center
- Alameda, 863 Broadway
- Chula Vista, Gateway Marketplace
- Novato, Vintage Oaks
- Lakewood, Icing Lakewood Center
- Palmdale, Antelope Valley Mall
- Culver City, Culver City Mall
The closure of multiple locations marks a pivotal moment for Claire’s, as it grapples with maintaining relevance and profitability in an evolving retail landscape.
FAQ Section
What is the current financial situation of Claire’s Holdings?
Claire’s Holdings has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy with a reported debt of $690 million.
How many stores will be closed as a result of the bankruptcy?
The company plans to close 291 stores nationwide, including 23 in California.
What will happen to the remaining Claire’s stores?
Ames Watson, a private equity firm, will acquire Claire’s North American business operations and will continue to operate the remaining 830 stores.
Are there any ongoing sales at the closing locations?
Yes, select closing locations are having a 50% off store closing sale to help clear out inventory.
When will the sales at closing locations end?
All sales at the closing locations will conclude by September 7, 2025.
Can customers still use gift cards?
Yes, gift cards and C. Club Rewards can be redeemed in select stores until August 29, 2025.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Debt | $690 million |
| Total Stores to Close | 291 nationwide, 23 in California |
| Remaining Stores | 830 stores will continue operation |
| Store Closure Sale | 50% off at select locations |
| Sale End Date | September 7, 2025 |
| Gift Card Validity | Until August 29, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Siskiyou Daily: Claire’s Closing California Stores
- ABC10: Claire’s Store Closings List
- Fast Company: Claire’s Store Closures
- Los Angeles Times: Claire’s Files for Bankruptcy
- King5: Claire’s Store Closures List
- Wikipedia: Claire’s
- Google Search: Claire’s bankruptcy 2025
- Google Scholar: Claire’s bankruptcy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Claire’s
- Google News: Claire’s bankruptcy
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, 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 the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
