Born Clothing Closes 15 Irish Stores, 116 Jobs Lost Amid Liquidation
Irish retailer Born Clothing is closing all 15 stores, leading to 116 job losses after 16 years in business. The High Court appointed liquidators due to challenges like the pandemic and rising costs. A closing down sale begins today, but gift vouchers are no longer accepted.
Irish retail chain Born Clothing has announced the closure of its 15 stores nationwide, resulting in the loss of 116 jobs. The company, which commenced operations with its first store in Newtownsmith, Galway, in 2009, made the announcement yesterday via an Instagram post.
In its statement, Born Clothing expressed gratitude, saying, «After 16 wonderful years in business, it was time to say goodbye. We want to sincerely thank each and every one of you for your support over the years – for shopping with us, supporting us, and being part of our journey. To our wonderful team, thank you for being the heart and soul of our business. Your loyalty and dedication will always be appreciated.» The company confirmed that a closing down sale would commence in its stores today.
Born Clothing stocked brands such as Vero Moda, Only, Vila, and its proprietary Emily & Me label. Its retail locations spanned Galway, Dublin, Cork, Kildare, Laois, Tipperary, Westmeath, Leitrim, Mayo, and Kerry. At its peak, Born Clothing operated over 20 stores across Ireland.
Concurrently, the High Court appointed provisional liquidators to the group on Tuesday. The court was informed that the company faced significant business difficulties, attributed to factors including the COVID-19 pandemic, increases in the minimum wage, and high business rates. A notice on the company's website clarifies that gift vouchers cannot be accepted due to the liquidation process. However, items purchased during the liquidation sale will be subject to a 30-day refund or return policy, provided there is a valid reason and the customer possesses a valid liquidation sales receipt.