Königstrasse in Nuremberg: Shops still closed after devastating fire

Königstrasse in Nuremberg: Shops still closed after devastating fire

On October 1, 2025, there was a devastating fire in the basement of a building on Königstrasse in Nuremberg, which put the businesses there in a precarious situation. The trigger was a distribution box that caught fire, which paralyzed the power supply to the entire complex. Since then, the businesses at Königstraße 2, including popular spots such as Auckland Coffee, Frittenwerk and Gelatissimo Soldan, have been closed.

The situation is tense because a restoration of the power supply was promised for October 27, 2025, but is not guaranteed. Managing director Ingo Chapter of The Späti reports on the enormous burdens caused by this uncertainty. “Every closed day costs money,” said Chapter, who also noted that he has not yet received any support from the city. Instead of contacting the affected entrepreneurs, the city administration sees the matter as a matter of private law. The mood on Königstrasse is also depressed and characterized by anger.

Economic consequences for those affected

The closures have far-reaching economic consequences. A sales stop not only led to loss of income, but also to perishable goods and unpleasant smells due to defective lifting systems. The affected stores are marked “Temporarily closed” on Google Maps, and information about the duration of the closure remains unclear. The companies cannot be reached by telephone, which makes communication with customers even more difficult.

Some owners, like Auckland Coffee's, are using social media to inform their customers about the situation. The fire brigade was deployed with around 40 emergency services and was fortunately able to prevent major damage - there were no injuries. But despite this quick response, the question remains as to when the repair work on the power grid will be completed.

Uncertain future for business

The uncertainty about when to reopen is putting a strain on business owners. The owner of My Hao comments on the current situation on his website, while many companies ask for understanding on social media. But despite all efforts, there is currently little clarity as to when shops can reopen.

The economic and emotional impact of these closures is serious for business owners. In a conversation, Chapter emphasized that an offer to talk from the city would have been seen as a sign of appreciation. But so far there has been no feedback from the city administration.

The situation on Königstrasse not only shows the vulnerability of local businesses, but also how quickly everyday business management can falter. The hope of a quick end to this imbalance now depends on the power supply being restored as quickly as possible.

A look at similar challenges in other cities could perhaps open up new perspectives for Nuremberg's entrepreneurs, but at the moment all that remains is patience and hope for better times for the companies affected.