Tween accessories and beauty retailer Claire’s North American business has been rescued from bankruptcy following its acquisition by private investment firm Ames Watson for $140 million. The deal includes most of Claire’s North American stores and its intellectual property, with plans to modernize and revitalize the brand across the United States.
The acquisition is expected to preserve between 790 and 950 stores nationwide, leveraging Ames Watson’s expertise in rebuilding retail businesses. The firm has highlighted a strategic focus on exclusivity, customization, and cultural relevance for the Claire’s brand, while emphasizing in-store experiences to create meaningful moments that encourage shoppers to engage offline.
Lawrence Berger, partner and co-founder at Ames Watson, commented: “Claire’s is one of those rare brands that defines a stage of life – old enough to buy your first lip gloss, but still young enough to believe it could change your world. The passion for this brand has been overwhelming, and we are eager to include the community as we move forward.”
Tom Ripley, partner and co-founder, added: “Every turnaround we have done begins with people. Claire’s has an incredibly passionate field team – many with 20 years or more in these stores – and their loyalty will be the foundation of this next chapter.”
With this acquisition, Ames Watson aims to bring Claire’s into a new era, blending nostalgia with innovation to reconnect with today’s tweens and teens.
