Quiz Enters Administration for Third Time
Quiz, the fashion retailer known for its trendy styles aimed at women aged 16 to 35, has entered administration for the third time in just six years. This latest development results in 109 staff members in Scotland facing job losses. Here’s a closer look at the situation:
– Background: Founded in 1993, Quiz has faced significant challenges over the past year, leading to disappointing sales, particularly during the critical Christmas shopping period.
– Current Operations:
– The chain operates 40 shops across the UK along with seven concessions. While these locations remain open for business, they are engaging in clearance sales and will not be processing refunds.
– The online store has been shut down.
– Impact on Employees:
– The redundancies will predominantly affect staff at Quiz’s head office in Glasgow and its distribution center in Bellshill, Lanarkshire.
– Overall, Quiz employs approximately 565 people.
– Industry Context:
– The fashion sector has experienced intense pressure from fast-fashion competitors like Shein, compounded by changing consumer behaviors and rising business costs.
– Interpath, the restructuring advisory firm overseeing the administration process, noted that Quiz faced strong economic headwinds over the last year, including cost challenges related to business rates and increasing employment expenses.
The Future for Quiz
Alistair McAlinden, joint administrator and head of Interpath in Scotland, addressed the gravity of the situation: With Quiz becoming the latest retailer to fall into administration, it’s clear that the UK High Street is facing a difficult start to 2026. Interpath intends to keep all Quiz stores and concessions operational for as long as possible while exploring available options for the business.
– Customer Information:
– Immediate clearance sales will launch at Quiz’s physical locations.
– Products purchased from February 5 onward will not be eligible for refunds unless found faulty.
– Items bought before February 5 can be exchanged in person, but cash or card refunds are not permitted.
– Customers awaiting refunds for online returns should contact their payment provider for assistance as Quiz will not honor gift cards or credit notes.
A Brief History of Quiz’s Challenges
Quiz debuted on the London Stock Exchange in 2017, raising over £100 million. However, it entered administration in 2020, closing 82 shops only to buy them back to renegotiate lease terms. This also resulted in cutting 93 jobs. Again in February 2025, Quiz faced administration but was quickly acquired by Orion, a subsidiary linked to the founding family, with 42 stores continuing operations. Nevertheless, this resulted in around 200 job losses due to the closure of other locations.
As Quiz navigates another period of uncertainty, its fate remains contingent on the ongoing economic landscape and consumer trends in fashion retail.