Shock in Kelkheim: Stelzer furniture store closes after 106 years!

Shock in Kelkheim: Stelzer furniture store closes after 106 years!

In Kelkheim, saying goodbye to an old friend can no longer be stopped. That has existed for 106 years Stelzer furniture store closes its doors. The sales have already started and it is an emotional moment for the loyal customers, as many have collected their purchases and memories here.

Buddy, the furniture store's dog, reflects the family atmosphere that many customers value. But the reality is different: the building on the corner of Bahnstrasse and Frankfurter Strasse is no longer considered up-to-date. High investments would be necessary to bring the property up to modern standards because the roof is leaking and creative solutions would be required.

Background to the closure

A business that is becoming increasingly rare is no longer sustainable. The frequency of day-to-day business leaves a lot to be desired. Customer behavior has changed; Many people get inspiration in stores and prefer to buy online or elsewhere. This has become a major problem for the industry as well World reported. A full 40 percent of furniture suppliers have disappeared in the last 15 years, and furniture stores are increasingly losing their appeal as family destinations.

The decision to close the furniture store was made quickly, and the emotional aspects also play an enormous role. 14 long-time employees are currently busy supporting the sale while their professional future remains uncertain. A management consultancy was commissioned to organize the sales process professionally.

The future of real estate

The uncertainty about the future use of the site remains. In addition to the desire for a living space, there are considerations for a multi-generational housing project. The need to develop creative ideas is particularly high in the industry, with other business models also needing to be examined.

The problems are not isolated. The industry as a whole is suffering from a significant decline in sales. In 2024, a decline of 6 to 8 percent is expected in the furniture trade. This is due to general consumer reluctance and market saturation following early purchases during the Corona crisis.

A sad farewell

The closure of the furniture store not only causes sadness among the employees and customers, but also strengthens solidarity through a “wall of fame” where emotional reactions are expressed. Suppliers and acquaintances fondly remember the times in this special furniture store.

So there remains hope that something new can emerge from this loss. What will happen next with the location and the industry remains to be seen. It is clear that the Hammer retail and furnishings chain in Hesse is also affected by the threat of closures, which further affects the situation.

The Stelzer furniture store will certainly be remembered as a symbol of an age-old business and the influences that affect the industry. Perhaps in the future there will be new ways to revive the experience that furniture stores once stood for.