More than a dozen Claire’s and ICING stores are set to close soon as the company has filed for bankruptcy. The Illinois-based retailer announced on Wednesday that it has voluntarily entered Chapter 11 proceedings “to maximize the value of the business.”
Chris Kramer, the CEO of Claire’s, stated that this choice, while difficult, was essential. He pointed to challenges such as “increasing competition, changes in consumer spending, the ongoing shift away from brick-and-mortar shopping,” along with debt pressures and wider economic factors.
Meanwhile, he mentioned that the company is actively seeking discussions with potential partners and is committed to reviewing strategic options.
According to the same announcement, Claire’s intends to keep most stores operational. However, legal documents indicate that 18 locations (five from ICING and thirteen from Claire’s) across 13 states are marked for potential closure.
These stores were identified as needing to close, as outlined in court documents.
**Alabama**
- 3518 Eastdale Mall, Montgomery
**California**
- Tyler’s 8042 Galleria (ICING) at Riverside
- 5586 Newpark Mall, Newark
**Illinois**
- 5307 Ford City Mall, Chicago
**Massachusetts**
- Market Street, Linfield, 3358 Linfield
**Michigan**
- 5896 Bay City Town Centre, Bay City
- 3422 Woodland Mall, Grand Rapids (ICING)
**Minnesota**
- 6684 Northtown Mall, Brain
**New Jersey**
- 6373 Livingstone Mall, Livingstone
**New York**
- 8456 Greek Ridge, Rochester (ICING)
**Pennsylvania**
- 5406 Union Town Mall, Union Town
**Tennessee**
- Pinnacles at Turkey Creek, 5368 Knoxville
**Texas**
- 6252 Shops in Highland Village, Highland Village
- 8615 Abilene Mall, Abilene (ICING)
**Utah**
- 6705 Probo Town Center, Probo
- 6233 Junction Commons, Park City
- 8668 University Orem, Orem (ICING)
**Washington**
- 722 Woodinville Plaza, Woodinville
If the court approves, the closures are anticipated to take effect by September 7.
Claire’s is well known for its reasonably priced jewelry and accessories and had previously sought bankruptcy protection back in 2018. Other retailers are facing similar challenges with unexpected debt, increased competition, and tariffs adding to the strain.
Currently, Claire’s has about $500 million in liabilities, with total assets ranging from $1 billion to $10 billion. Court documents indicate that Claire is also considering selling properties.
This year, several retailers have filed for bankruptcy, including At Home and Joan, which have had to close many stores as well.
