Fashion accessory retailer Claire's has gone into administration, putting the future of its Aberdeen stores in jeopardy.
The chain, which 278 shops across the UK including two in Aberdeen and one in Elgin, is continuing to trade while administrators from Interpath "assess options for the company", the BBC reports.
It comes as the brand, which saw its popularity peak in the early 2000s, has struggled in recent times against strong competition and dropping sales.
Claire's also has 28 stores in Ireland, and employs a total of 2,150 across the UK and Ireland.
Earlier this month, the firm filed for bankruptcy in the US amid debts of $690million (£508million).
Claire's chief executive Chris Cramer cited "increased competition, consumer spending trends and the ongoing shift away from brick-and-mortar retail" as key factors behind the declaration of bankruptcy.
He said it was a "challenging period" and that "in the UK, taking this step will allow us to continue to trade the business while we explore the best possible path forward".
Read more on the BBC website.