Major UK Fashion Retailer Quiz Enters Administration, Gift Cards Invalidated
The prominent UK high street fashion chain Quiz has officially collapsed into administration, leading to the immediate loss of 109 jobs and the shutdown of its online store. This development marks a significant blow to the retail sector, with administrators from Interpath now overseeing the remaining operations.
Administration Details and Store Closures
Quiz plunged into administration on February 5, 2026, citing challenging retail conditions that have plagued the industry. The administration process has resulted in over 100 job cuts, though 40 physical Quiz locations across the UK remain open under the management of Interpath administrators. These stores will continue to operate for the time being, offering customers access to remaining inventory.
Gift Cards and Credit Notes No Longer Accepted
In a move that will disappoint many shoppers, administrators have confirmed that Quiz will no longer honour gift cards or credit notes. This decision aligns with common practices in insolvency cases, where firms under administration are not legally obligated to fulfill such promises. Financial expert Martin Lewis has previously warned consumers about the risks associated with gift cards, advising prompt use to avoid losses if a retailer collapses.
Martin Lewis commented on the issue, stating, "If you've got gift vouchers or cards, use them as soon as possible in case the store collapses. When firms go into administration, it's perfectly legal for them to stop accepting gift vouchers, rendering them as worthless as the plastic or paper they're printed on."
Additional Discounts on Remaining Stock
Despite the grim news, there is a silver lining for bargain hunters. Alistair McAlinden, head of Interpath in Scotland and joint administrator, announced that all 40 open Quiz stores will implement additional clearance discounts on remaining stock. This move aims to liquidate inventory and generate funds during the administration process.
Alistair McAlinden said, "Since our appointment on 5 February, trading across the Quiz store portfolio has been extremely positive. We’d like to advise customers that all 40 stores remain open, and we will now be commencing additional clearance discounts across all remaining stock."
Broader Retail Industry Context
The collapse of Quiz adds to a growing list of UK retailers that have faced administration in recent years, including well-known names such as Wilko, Made.com, Joules, Missguided, Debenhams, and House of Fraser. This trend highlights the ongoing struggles within the high street retail environment, driven by factors like economic pressures and shifting consumer habits.
Under insolvency law, administrators have the discretion to decide whether to accept gift vouchers, and in many cases, they opt to halt their acceptance to prioritise other financial obligations. This leaves consumers with few recourse options, emphasising the importance of cautious spending on gift cards during uncertain economic times.
