California, September 1, 2025
News Summary
Claire’s, the popular teen accessories chain, plans to close 291 stores across the U.S. following a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing. This decision, driven by competition, changing consumer habits, and significant debt, highlights the struggles of brick-and-mortar retailers. The closures will impact 25 locations in California and include liquidation sales with discounts up to 80%. With a history dating back to 1961, Claire’s faces significant challenges in the evolving retail landscape, especially as online shopping becomes increasingly dominant.
California – Claire’s, the well-known teen accessories chain, has announced plans to shutter nearly 300 stores across the United States following a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing. This marks Claire’s second bankruptcy in five years, illustrating the ongoing challenges faced by brick-and-mortar retailers.
CEO Chris Cramer indicated that the decision to close stores stems from increased competition, shifts in consumer spending habits, and a decline in physical retailing. The financial pressures on Claire’s include substantial debt, highlighted by a looming $500 million loan due by December 2023.
Specifically, the store closures will affect 291 locations nationwide, with 25 of those in California. The affected stores in California are located in 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, and Tustin. In addition to the main brand stores, 56 Icing stores, Claire’s sister retail brand, will also close, including locations in Culver City, Lakewood, and Palmdale.
As part of the downsizing strategy, Claire’s has already started liquidation sales, with significant discounts reported at certain locations, including up to 80% off clearance items at the Emeryville store. Claire’s intends to continue sales operations at most locations until the closures, which are expected to be concluded by September 7, 2025.
Founded in 1961, Claire’s originally started as a wig store before pivoting in 1978 to focus on accessories and ear-piercing services. The company claims to have pierced over 100 million ears since its establishment. With more than 2,750 locations in 17 countries throughout North America and Europe, Claire’s was once a hub for young shoppers seeking trendy accessories.
The decision to close stores comes in light of a broader pattern of decline for mall retailers, exacerbated by the growth of online shopping platforms such as Shein and Temu. Other mall-based retailers, like Forever 21 and Foot Locker, have recently also filed for bankruptcy, indicating a more extensive struggle within the retail sector.
After a previous bankruptcy restructuring in 2018, Claire’s managed to reduce its debt by $1.9 billion and raised $575 million in new capital. Despite the current store closures, discussions for strategic alternatives are ongoing as the company works towards a rebound in a challenging retail landscape.
Claire’s current situation underscores the mounting difficulties faced by traditional retail models, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, changing consumer preferences, and competition from online alternatives. The company’s plan to close a significant number of locations signals a critical shift in its operating strategy, aiming to stabilize amidst ongoing economic challenges.
FAQ
Why is Claire’s closing stores?
Claire’s is closing stores due to increased competition, changing consumer spending habits, a decline in brick-and-mortar retail, and significant debt, including a $500 million loan due by December 2023.
How many stores will Claire’s close?
Claire’s will close 291 locations nationwide, with 25 identified closures happening in California.
What is the timeline for the store closures?
The closures are expected to be completed by September 7, 2025, with ongoing liquidation sales prior to the final shutdown.
Key Features of the Closure Announcement
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Store Closures | 291 locations nationwide |
| Closures in California | 25 locations |
| Debt Obligation | $500 million loan due December 2023 |
| Liquidation Sales | Discounts of up to 80% |
| Company History | Founded in 1961 as a wig store; transitioned to accessories in 1978 |
| Previous Bankruptcy | Encoded $1.9 billion in debt in 2018 restructuring |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- ABC10 News
- Wikipedia: Claire’s
- USA Today
- Google Search: Claire’s store closures
- Los Angeles Times
- Google Scholar: Claire’s bankruptcy
- Business Insider
- Encyclopedia Britannica: retail bankruptcy
- Fast Company
- Google News: Claire’s bankruptcy 2025
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, 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 OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
