HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILL. — Claire’s U.S., the operator of Claire’s and Icing stores across the United States, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Delaware. The jewelry retailer listed both its liabilities and assets between $1 billion to $10 billion. Hoffman Estates-based Claire’s previously filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2018. Claire’s says that the proceedings will enable the company to immediately commence the monetization process for its assets to maximize value for the business. The retailer is continuing a comprehensive review of strategic alternatives, including discussions with potential partners that began prior to the filings. “This decision is difficult, but a necessary one. Increased competition, consumer spending trends and the ongoing shift away from brick-and-mortar retail, in combination with our current debt obligations and macroeconomic factors, necessitate this course of action for Claire’s and its stakeholders,” says Chris Cramer, CEO of Claire’s. Claire’s retail stores in North America will remain open and continue to serve customers. However, in its bankruptcy filings the retailer noted 18 Claire’s and Icing stores that “should be exited” and is requesting the approval of store closing sales. These include: Claire’s U.S. intends to seek approval for a consensual use of cash collateral to …
