Uncertainty hangs over the future of Claire’s last five stores in the north, which is also owned by Modella Capital
The last three remaining Original Factory Shop outlets in Northern Ireland are closing following the retail chain’s collapse into administration last week.
The discount retailer, which trades from Portrush, Ballycastle and Warrenpoint, appointed administrators from Interpath Advisory on January 28.
Despite initially announcing all stores would continue to trade while insolvency experts assess options to keep it afloat, all three outlets in the north have now announced they will close.
The social media pages for the Ballycastle, Portrush and Warrenpoint stores have launched closing down sales.
Originally launched in England in 1969, The Original Factory Shop expanded to around ten shops in Northern Ireland at its peak.
Administrators said the company has been hit by challenging trading conditions, linked to high cost inflation, fragile consumer confidence and rising labour costs caused by government policies.
The business filed its intention to appoint administrators last month alongside fashion accessories brand Claire’s.
Both retailers, which were bought by investment firm Modella Capital last year, have undergone restructuring.
Six Claire’s shops closed in the north during mid-2025, with uncertainty hanging over the remaining five outlets in Belfast, Banbridge, Craigavon, Newtownabbey and Derry.
It’s the latest blow for the high street in the north following Santander’s decision to close its branches in Bangor, Banbridge, Glengormley and Enniskillen in the coming months.
The Spanish-owned lender already closed seven branches last year.
The fashion retailer Quiz also collapsed into administration this week. It has four standalone shops in Northern Ireland, with concessions based in six other retail outlets.
