**Claire’s to Be Acquired by Ames Watson Following Chapter 11 Filing**
Claire’s Holdings LLC, the parent company of popular accessory retailers Claire’s and Icing, has announced an agreement to sell its North American operations to private holding firm Ames Watson. The deal, valued at $140 million—including a $36 million seller note—will transfer ownership of Claire’s business operations in the U.S. and Canada, along with its intellectual property and retail storefronts.
The transaction aims to preserve approximately 950 Claire’s locations across North America, even as the company undergoes financial restructuring. Just two weeks prior, Claire’s filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States and sought creditor protection in Canada.
As part of the deal, Claire’s has paused liquidation efforts at many of its stores. However, liquidation will continue in other North American locations not covered by the agreement.
Lawrence Berger, co-founder of Ames Watson, expressed optimism about the future of the brand, stating that the firm is committed to maintaining a strong retail presence throughout the region. The acquisition is still subject to court approval.
