A prominent British men's clothing retailer specialising in plus-size fashion has fallen into administration, ceasing all trading with immediate effect. The company, Great Clothing Ltd, operated under the well-known brand name Big Boys and was based in Leeds.
The End of the Road for Big Boys
Big Boys focused on providing clothing for larger men, offering sizes ranging from 2XL up to 10XL. During 2025, the company employed an average of 12 people. A notice posted on the brand's website confirmed the difficult decision, stating it was taken after careful consideration and was not made lightly.
The firm's statement read: "Despite sustained efforts to address the financial challenges faced by the company, it has unfortunately not been possible to continue trading." The licensed insolvency practitioner Chris Brooksbank of CB Business Recovery Ltd has been appointed as the administrator.
Wider Turbulence on the UK High Street
The collapse of Big Boys is not an isolated incident in the UK retail sector, which continues to face significant headwinds. In related news, fashion chain River Island is proceeding with a major restructure, closing at least 27 stores this month as part of a plan that will see 33 branches shut overall.
Branches in Brighton, Edinburgh Princes Street, Great Yarmouth, and Stockton-on-Tees closed in the final months of 2025, with closures in Norwich and Workington still to be confirmed. The retailer is also reducing rents at a further 71 shops.
Meanwhile, discount chain Poundland is set to close 12 shops in January following a High Court-approved restructure. This follows the closure of 57 stores by the end of September last year after the business was sold to investment firm Gordon Brothers for £1. The chain, which had 800 branches last summer, now expects its estate to reduce to between 650 and 700 stores.
Poundland is concurrently rolling out a new simplified pricing structure of £1, £2, and £3 across its UK stores, with an estimated 60% of grocery items priced at £1.
What Happens Next for the Leeds Brand?
With the administrator now in place, Chris Brooksbank will be responsible for managing the company's affairs, business, and property. He will act as an agent of the company without personal liability. The primary focus will be on handling the interests of creditors and determining if any assets can be realised.
The closure highlights the ongoing pressures facing specialist retailers and the broader challenges within the UK's high street and retail property landscape, where shifting consumer habits and economic pressures are forcing significant changes.
