Claire’s ramps up expansion in Europe

Claire’s Holdings is expanding its global footprint.

The young women’s jewelry and accessories retailer plans to open 50 stores within the European Union in 2023. The expansion includes 10 locations in Italy, with stores in Venice, Rome, Florence, Milan and Naples. Claire’s opened its first Italian store in 2012, in Milan, and today has more than 40 stores open within the market.  

The company currently has more than 900 owned stores and 2,100 partner retailer locations across Europe through its consumer products business. Claire’s consumer products program includes retailers across Europe, including Galaries Lafeyette, as well as toy retailers Smyths, King Jouet, Maxi Kids and Toys “R” US.  The brand's presence has also grown throughout the UK in retailers such as Asda, Matalan, New Look, Coop and more.  

In the U.S., Claire’s has been expanding via partnerships with other retailers, including Macy’s and Walmart, with its products now available in more than 2,500 Walmart stores and in more than 360 Claire's store-in-stores at Walmart locations It also has a presence in grocery chains, including Albertsons, Kroger, Giant Eagle and more.

“The strategic combination of owned stores and consumer product partnerships allows us to celebrate and deliver our brand to consumers in even more locations where they shop,” said Ryan Vero, CEO, Claire’s.

Claire’s expansion in Europe follows the opening of the brand’s Paris flagship in May.

Earlier this month, Claire’s rolled out a new campaign that reimagines its legacy ear piercing business with a new look and feel. Called “Pierced by Claire’s,” the campaign features a new visual identity designed to elevate the customer experience in stores and across digital channels. 

“For more than 40 years, we have created a deep connection with our consumers through our industry-leading piercing business, delivering an experience they can trust, styles that excite them and a memorable visit to Claire's," said Vero. "Piercing creates a deep connection with our consumers and draws new people and returning customers to our brand and stores every year, and we are proud to build on that legacy to meet the next generation."