Retail groups Claire’s and The Original Factory Shop are close to entering administration after their owner, Modella Capital, said insolvency proceedings have been started for both chains. The development put 2,550 jobs across the UK in jeopardy. Modella acquired the US-based Claire’s in September, just weeks after the accessories retailer had entered administration for a second time. That transaction followed an earlier collapse, which led to around 1,000 redundancies and the closure of 145 outlets. ...

Core Insights - U.S. fashion and footwear firms are performing relatively well compared to other sectors in terms of corporate bankruptcies [1] Bankruptcy Statistics - In 2025, only two fashion firms, Claire's Holdings LLC and F21 OpCo LLC, filed for bankruptcy with liabilities exceeding $1 billion, out of a total of 26 firms in various sectors [2] - The healthcare and information technology sectors have seen a higher number of bankruptcies, while other consumer discretionary firms like At Home Group Inc. and Joann Inc. were not in apparel or footwear [2] Reorganization vs. Liquidation - The third quarter saw a 23% increase in bankruptcy reorganizations, totaling 137, while liquidations decreased by over 9% to 69 [3] - Claire's managed to avoid liquidation by selling assets for $140 million, resulting in the closure of 300 stores but preserving 960 locations [4] Overall Bankruptcy Trends - The total number of large bankruptcies is on track to reach the highest level since 2010, with 582 cases filed through September [5] - The S&P report attributes the rise in bankruptcies to overleveraged firms facing macroeconomic challenges, particularly in refinancing low-interest debt amid high interest rates [7] Specific Company Bankruptcies - Notable bankruptcies in the footwear sector include Soleply, Amiga Shoes, and CaaStle, with the latter two filing for Chapter 7 liquidation [6]

Core Insights - Malaysian e-commerce companies are actively seeking cross-border expansion opportunities in Southeast Asia, aiming for smooth entry and rapid growth by 2025 [1][6] - The guide emphasizes the importance of optimizing logistics and supply chains as a core aspect of cross-border expansion [1] Logistics and Supply Chain - Three supply chain models are available for companies: 1. "Production + Manufacturing + Warehousing and Distribution" suitable for established brands 2. "Bulk Shipping + Warehousing and Distribution" which shortens delivery times but requires inventory risk management 3. "Direct to Consumer" model preferred for testing new markets to lower initial costs [1][7][8] - Commercial logistics is favored for its cost-effectiveness, while courier and postal services are used for high-value or urgent orders and small, low-value items [1] Consumer Insights - Southeast Asian consumers show a high acceptance of regional brands, with many willing to purchase products from neighboring countries [1] - Popular cross-border shopping categories include fashion accessories, food and beverages, and health and beauty products [1] - Consumer preferences vary by country, with Malaysia favoring Korean and Japanese styles, Singapore preferring mass brands, and Vietnam valuing Southeast Asian cultural brands [1] Marketing and Outreach - E-commerce platforms remain the primary channel, but businesses are diversifying their outreach through social media and brand websites to reduce platform dependency and enhance user interaction [2] - Localized operations are crucial, as consumer preferences for social media and customer acquisition channels differ across countries [2] Operational Considerations - Key operational details include aligning tariffs, delivery times, and payment methods with local realities [2] - Variations in "low-value tariff exemption thresholds" across countries allow businesses to optimize costs by adjusting product pricing [2] - Delivery times should be communicated to manage consumer expectations and reduce complaints [2] - Payment methods must align with local habits, such as electronic payments in Singapore and cash on delivery in Vietnam and Indonesia [2]