Claire's stores in Portugal "remain open and operational," despite the insolvency of the US company and the possibility of selling in the UK market. "The insolvency process does not affect the European stores. There is no bankruptcy or restructuring request in Portugal at this time," an official company source told ECO.

Last week, international consultancy Interpath announced that two directors have been appointed to explore options for the future of Claire’s Accessories UK, which operates 306 Claire’s stores in the UK and Ireland, employing 2,150 people.

Interpath’s directors have acknowledged the sale of the UK business. “In the coming weeks, we will strive to continue operating all existing stores for as long as possible while we evaluate options for the company. This includes exploring the possibility of a sale that would secure a future for this beloved brand,” said Interpath UK CEO Will Wright.

“Claire’s has long been a popular brand in the UK, known not only for its on-trend accessories but also as the ideal destination for ear piercings,” the manager and receiver noted in a statement.

In business for over 60 years, Claire's is headquartered in the Chicago suburbs, bills itself as a "girl's best friend," and has more than 2,750 brand stores across 17 countries in the Americas and Europe. The group also has 190 stores in the United States under the Icing banner and sells its products in "thousands" of concession stores in Europe and North America, in addition to approximately 300 franchises located primarily in the Middle East and South Africa.

Claire's history dates back to the 1960s, when entrepreneur Rowland Schaefer founded a brand called Fashion Tress Industries, which excelled in the wig business, while another chain of accessory stores called Claire's Boutiques was growing in the Chicago area.