A POPULAR American jewellery and accessories chain is opening a new shop in Winchester High Street.
Claire’s has taken over the former Smiggle unit next door to Superdrug and Halifax, ready to open on Friday, June 30.
After a week of building works, staff moved into the unit on Monday, June 26 with a buzz of energy while unpacking stock ahead of the Friday opening.
Claire’s employees from the Eastleigh branch have taken over the Winchester unit in hope of diversifying the High Street's shopping options.
READ MORE: Winchester city centre shop Smiggle closes
Staff member Chloe Nox, 22, said: “There’s a lack of creativity in the fashion here so we’re ready to come and bring some sparkle.
“We’ve had people trying to come in today and people have been asking about the store. Everyone seems very happy that there’s going to be a Claire’s.
“We’re the most excited. The buzz inside the room right now is phenomenal.”
The unit has been empty since the children's stationery shop Smiggle closed in 2021 following the Covid lockdowns.
The cost-of-living crisis has seen a number of city centre businesses close in recent months including Prezzo and Sarah Barrett hair salon in Jewry Street and Joules in the High Street but Claire’s staff are confident there’s a gap in Winchester for their brand.
SEE ALSO: Winchester deli expands to larger unit in St George’s Street
Chloe said: “We’ve got some great deals and it’s amazing value for money. We have a loyalty scheme and we’re currently offering buy three items, get three items free.
“Staff from some of the other stores are coming to support us on Friday. We’re going to have a balloon arch and a party in store so everyone can come and have fun with us.”
The Winchester branch is already set up on TikTok and Instagram with a countdown to the launch.
Claire’s, formerly known as Claire’s Boutiques and Claire’s Accessories, was founded in 1961 in Illinois, America.
The retailer now has thousands of stores in 37 countries offering piercings and selling jewellery, accessories, toys and hair and beauty products.
The Winchester store will be open from Friday, June 30. For updates go to instagram.com/claireswinchester/.
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