Dortmund mourns: traditional fashion store Ortner closed after 161 years!
After 161 years, the traditional fashion retailer Ortner in Dortmund is closing its doors due to the end of the rental agreement.

Dortmund mourns: traditional fashion store Ortner closed after 161 years!
A sad day for the Dortmund fashion world: After an impressive 161 years, the traditional fashion retailer Ortner in Dortmund is finally retiring. The company was founded in 1864 by Franz Kassian Ortner in Bad Kissingen and has established itself over the years as an integral part of Dortmund's shopping landscape. However, the farewell does not come as a surprise: plans for the closure have been known since May 2025 after the landlord did not extend the rental agreement and no suitable new premises could be found. The sell-off has already begun and the final closure is scheduled for the end of 2025, as Ruhr24 reports.
Ortner currently operates three store brands in the city: Ortner “Womensworld”, Ortner “Mensworld” and JUVIA by Ortner. Unfortunately, the company's online shop will also be discontinued, meaning customers will soon no longer have the opportunity to purchase the popular fashion items online. After the closure, the property from which Ortner operates will be handed over to the Technical University of Dortmund, which would like to set up learning spaces and a lecture hall there.
A piece of Dortmund's history is being lost
Ortner is not just a fashion house, but also a part of Dortmund's history. The workforce and loyal customers are faced with the challenge of saying goodbye to a familiar face on the high street. The emotional connection to the brand is strong, and many people in Dortmund will sorely miss the warm atmosphere and comprehensive advice.
As part of the closure, bargain hunters also have the opportunity to stock up on current fashion items again. The sale attracts many people looking for one last good deal before Ortner closes its doors forever.
Dortmund Export: Another piece of tradition
The end of Ortner is just one of many changes in Dortmund. The city also has a rich beer culture that dates back to the late 1800s. An example of this is Dortmunder Export, a light lager that has been brewed since 1873. Originally made by Dortmunder Union, it was the most popular style of beer in Germany until 1970, when Pilsner rose to the top of popularity. In recent decades, export beer has experienced a decline in popularity, but it remains an important part of Dortmund's beer history, as Wikipedia notes.
Whether it's about the latest Ortner fashion trends or the cool, refreshing Dortmund export, the city remains a place full of traditions and stories. Time passes, but people's memories and connection to their local providers remain.