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British clothing giant and 4 more retail icons collapse into administration - full list
Reach Daily Express | February 14, 2026 12:40 PM CST

Across the UK high street, there's a huge number of companies which have filed for administration since the start of 2026. From giant clothing brands to gaming and accessories retailers, January has seen many once-popular chains file for administration.

This follows 1,631 UK businesses filing for administration in 2025, according to a new analysis by full-service law firm Shakespeare Martineau published on January 9. While this figure represents a 5% decrease compared with 2024, it remains 22% higher than in 2022. Here is a list of iconic UK stores that have fallen into administration so far this year.

1. Quiz clothing

The fashion retailer Quiz has gone into administration for the third time in six years, resulting in 109 employees facing job losses.

According to the administrators, the company, established in 1993, has faced challenges over the past year, resulting in disappointing sales during the Christmas season.

While the chain's 40 stores and seven concessions are still operating, they will be conducting clearance sales and will not process refunds. Additionally, its online store has been shut down.

2. Claire's

Claire's, the accessories chain where countless 16-year-olds have had their ears pierced, entered administration for the second time in January.

Approximately 150 stores employing 1,000 individuals are now in jeopardy, just four months after the company was saved.

Administrators Kroll announced that they have been appointed to manage the insolvency of the brand's operations in the UK and Ireland. They also mentioned that Claire's "is still trading during this time".

3. Game

After entering administration proceedings, the gaming giant, a beloved part of many childhoods, shared plans to close its last remaining standalone stores. The company confirmed its intention to appoint administrators at the end of January.

The presence of UK retailer Game on the high street has steadily diminished over the last 10 years, making shops a rare sight, and soon, any standalone stores will become a thing of the past.

Last month, the firm submitted a notice of appointment of administrators, marking the second time Game has entered administration since 2012.

4. The Original Factory Shop

As of January 28, The Original Factory Shop entered administration, putting more than 1,000 jobs at risk.

The Original Factory Shop has brought in administrators from Interpath Advisory to manage the insolvency process.

The administrators pointed to several issues affecting The Original Factory Shop, including challenging trading conditions, high inflation, increased labour costs due to Government regulations, and a decline in consumer confidence.

5. LK Bennett

It's the brand adored by Princess Kate. Still, UK fashion retailer LK Bennett is preparing to close all its standalone stores after going into administration, putting numerous jobs in jeopardy.

As of February 2026, the business is under administration, and while investment firm Gordon Brothers has taken over the LK Bennett brand, the deal did not apply to the retailer's physical store locations.

As a result, all remaining stores are expected to permanently shut down by spring 2026. Administrators indicate that the nine standalone shops and 13 department store concessions will keep operating for up to three months, suggesting that closures are probable by April 2026.


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