Feneberg closes branch in Garmisch: What does that mean for the region?

Feneberg closes branch in Garmisch: What does that mean for the region?

The Feneberg branch on Klammstraße in Garmisch-Partenkirchen will close its doors on September 30, 2025. This was announced by company spokeswoman Anja Züfle, who explained that, given the closure of the markets in Murnau and Ohlstadt, the company is now faced with increased logistical effort, which makes economically and organizationally sensible operations impossible. It is a regrettable decision that was not made without emotions, as managing director Amelie Feneberg emphasized. Their concern was to provide the employees with the best possible support, as the closure also has consequences for them.

Carolyn Princess von Croy, chairwoman of the Garmisch-Partenkirchen Women's Union, was particularly critical. She points out that the closure could have a significant impact, especially on older people without a car. Nevertheless, Horst Demmelmayr, from the senior citizens' advisory board, does not see the situation as a serious problem, as there are enough shopping opportunities in the area with Edeka, Aldi and Lidl. Mayor Elisabeth Koch also regrets the situation, but understands the economic reasons that led to this decision.

Impact on the workforce

The situation at Feneberg is not just limited to the closures in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The insolvent subsidiary Allgäu Fresh Foods (AFF) from Kempten is planning to be taken over by the Kupfer Group from Heilsbronn, Bavaria, which would like to take over 51 percent of the shares in AFF by the end of the year as part of an insolvency plan. Feneberg himself remains involved with 49 percent. The hope for the approximately 450 employees is that their employment can be “largely secured,” even if adjustments cannot be ruled out. Discussions with potential investors began in May, and key creditors are signaling their support for the restructuring process.

Such developments are part of a larger problem, as 196,100 companies in Germany had to close in 2024, which corresponds to an increase of 16 percent compared to the previous year. This is the highest level of closures since 2011. A company closure cannot automatically be associated with financial difficulties; A lack of successors, uncertain economic prospects or structural challenges often play a role. Many businesses that close are not necessarily bankrupt, but are responding to changing market conditions and changing consumption.

The future of the location

The uncertainty about the future use of the 1,800 square meter retail space on Klammstrasse remains. Feneberg is holding discussions about possible reuse, but there are currently no concrete results. The closure of the branch is not only a loss for the employees, but could also have an impact on the entire infrastructure of the district. It will be exciting for residents to see what alternatives can be created locally in the future to meet the needs of the population.