In a significant blow to the British high street, the popular fashion retailer Quiz has officially entered administration, marking a drastic turn for the chain that has been a staple in towns and cities across the UK for decades. The company, which operates 40 standalone stores and concessions within New Look and Matalan outlets, filed for administration earlier this month, leading to the immediate loss of 109 jobs and the closure of its online store.
Administration and Immediate Impact
Joint administrators Alistair McAlinden and Geoff Jacobs from Interpath have been appointed to oversee the process. Redundancies have been implemented at Quiz's head office in Glasgow and its warehouse in Lanarkshire, with the company's website taken offline. Shoppers have been informed that any online orders placed before 5th February 2026 that have not yet been dispatched will be cancelled, and refunds for returned items will not be processed.
Stock Clearance and Discounts
Despite the administration, Quiz stores across the UK have remained open, embarking on a bold strategy to clear remaining inventory. In a move to drive footfall and liquidate stock, the retailer is offering substantial discounts across all product categories. According to reports from Retail Gazette, boots are discounted by at least 50%, while other footwear items have been reduced by a minimum of 40%.
Dresses, handbags, and accessories are now available with discounts of at least 30%, and the rest of the range has been marked down by no less than 20%. Alistair McAlinden, one of the joint administrators, encouraged customers to visit their nearest stores, stating, "As we continue to explore options for the business, we would encourage shoppers to visit their nearest stores, with further discounts available on all remaining stock."
Customer Guidance and Returns
In a notice published on the Quiz website prior to its closure, the company outlined procedures for customers affected by the administration. Those who made purchases via the website before 5th February 2026 and wish to return items are advised to visit their nearest Quiz store, where they can receive a replacement or substitute item of equal or lesser value. However, customers who have already returned items but not received refunds will not be reimbursed and should contact their credit or debit card providers for assistance.
Company Background and Broader Implications
Founded in 1993 in Glasgow, Scotland, by entrepreneur Tarak Ramzan, Quiz employs a total of 565 workers. The administration also includes seven concessions across the Republic of Ireland. Geoff Jacobs, the other joint administrator, expressed gratitude to the staff, saying, "We’d once again like to pass on our profound thanks to Quiz’ dedicated staff who have shown such professionalism since our appointment."
This development highlights the ongoing challenges faced by high street retailers, with Quiz joining a growing list of fashion brands struggling in a competitive market. The store closures and job losses underscore the economic pressures impacting the retail sector, particularly in the wake of shifting consumer habits and economic uncertainties.
As the administration process unfolds, customers are urged to take advantage of the clearance sales while stock lasts, with the future of the brand remaining uncertain amidst efforts to salvage parts of the business.
