A men’s clothing brand based in the UK has recently shuttered its operations following a move into administration. Great Clothing Ltd, which operated under the name Big Boys, specialized in offering plus-size clothing for men ranging from sizes 2XL to 10XL. Situated in Leeds, the retailer employed an average of 12 individuals throughout 2025.
Chris Brooksbank from CB Business Recovery Ltd has been designated as the administrator in charge. A statement on the Big Boys website explained that the decision to cease trading was carefully considered and not taken lightly. Despite extensive efforts to tackle the financial hurdles, sustaining operations became unfeasible.
An insolvency practice has been engaged to manage the proceedings, with their licensed Insolvency Practitioner set to be appointed as the company’s administrator imminently. Once appointed, the administrator will oversee the company’s affairs, business, and assets, acting as a representative without personal liability.
In related retail news, River Island is set to close a minimum of 27 stores this month as part of a significant restructuring effort. Among the list of closures are branches in Brighton, Edinburgh Princes Street, Great Yarmouth, and Stockton-on-Tees, which shut down in the latter part of 2025. Other locations, such as Norwich, Norfolk, and Workington, Cumbria, are also slated for closure, although specific dates have not been confirmed.
Additionally, River Island plans to reduce rents at an additional 71 shops as part of the restructuring strategy. The clothing chain had a total of 223 stores across the UK and Ireland when its rescue plan was presented in court in August of this year.
Poundland is also making changes, with 12 store closures scheduled for January as part of a restructuring plan approved by the High Court. The discount retailer had already closed 57 stores by the end of September following its acquisition by investment firm Gordon Brothers for a nominal fee. Poundland, which had 800 branches last summer, anticipates reducing this number to approximately 650-700 stores through a combination of closures and lease expirations.
The company is introducing a simplified pricing structure of £1, £2, and £3 in its UK stores, with approximately 60% of grocery items priced at £1, 20% at £2, and 20% at £3 under the new system. Poundland has also updated its website to allow browsing only, with no option for online purchases.