Irish retail chain Born Clothing has announced the closure of its 15 stores with the loss of over 100 jobs.
The company, which opened its first store in Newtownsmith in Galway in 2009, announced the news in an Instagram post yesterday.
It said that "after 16 wonderful years in business it was time to say goodbye."
The company stocked Vero Moda, Only, Vila and their own Emily & Me label. Its stores are located in Galway, Dublin, Cork, Kildare, Laois, Tipperary, Westmeath, Leitrim, Mayo and Kerry.
The High Court appointed provisional liquidators to the group on Tuesday.
The court heard that business difficulties arose for reasons which included the Covid pandemic, the increase in the minimum wage and high business rates.
At its peak Born had over 20 stores in Ireland. It currently employs 116 people.
In its Instagram post, the company said it wanted "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.
"As we close this chapter our closing down sale begins tomorrow in stores, with up to 70% off everything. With love to everyone in Born."
A notice on their website indicates that gift vouchers cannot be accepted because they are in liquidation.
It further states that items bought during the liquidation sale will have a 30 day refund or return policy, providing there is a valid reason and the customer has a valid liquidation sales customer receipt.
