The Original Factory Shop In Thurso Under Threat of Closure As Company Goes Into Administraion

6th January 2026

The Original Factory Shop (often called TOFS) has gone into administration as of early January 2026.

It, along with the high-street chain Claire's, has entered insolvency proceedings after its owner said last-ditch attempts to save the business failed.

The Original Factory Shop (Thurso) is located at 27-29 High Street, Thurso, KW14 8AJ.

This move puts around 2,500 jobs at risk across the UK and Ireland, including about 1,220 staff at The Original Factory Shop's roughly 140 stores.

Administration means the company is being managed by appointed administrators while its future (restructuring, sale, or closure) is considered.

Administration filings have been made for both The Original Factory Shop and Claire's following continued financial losses and tough trading conditions.

The owner, Modella Capital, said there was no realistic path to profitability, making administration the only option.

While stores may remain open temporarily during the process, some closures or restructuring are possible depending on whether buyers are found.

This comes after TOFS had previously tried other measures like restructuring and a Company Voluntary Arrangement to stay viable.