Dortmund's Hofius” ends sustainable fashion production after 40 years

Von Kl Redaktion

Retail in Dortmund city center faces a change that does not have good news. After decades of existence, the traditional fashion operation "Hofius" announces that it will stop its production. This is done as part of a further growing problem for local business. The focus on quality and sustainability that the company has lived over the years does not seem to withstand the challenges of the market.

Already in August another prominent dealer, the "Van Laack" store, had to give up his business. In September there is now the announcement of "Hofius", which has been working in Dortmund for 40 years. In particular, the specialization in sustainable clothing emphasizes the tragedy of this closure, since numerous retailers had to close due to increasing challenges and falling demand.

emotional farewell message on the Internet

The operators, Lena and Nora Dümer, leave an emotionally moving message on their website. "We started in 2024 full of anticipation. We wanted to celebrate Hofius fashion with them for 40 years," it says. However, these happy expectations have given way to reality, because the economic framework has worsened drastically. The closures of surrounding business have led to the fact that your own production is no longer profitable.

In a conversation with the Ruhr Nachrichten, the founders show that their decisions are also due to market mechanisms influenced by the fast-fashion industry. This type of fashion, which relies on mass and speed, has contributed to the fact that owners who have managed shops that value quality are left.

Criticism of the fast fashion industry

The criticism of the fast fashion industry is obvious. "Far too much clothing is thrown away," says Lena Dümer and thus addresses a serious problem in the fashion industry. While sustainability and climate protection are primarily in the public discussion, the fast pace of this industry often leads to the negative consequences. "Slow-Fashion" is emphasized, which points out that the two sisters want to work for conscious and high-quality fashion.

Although the production of "Hofius" now ends, the future of its business remains uncertain. The shops are currently running in the Kreuzviertel and Rosenviertel, and the online shop remains active. Customers have the opportunity to use an exclusive collection of pants, T-shirts, sweaters or jackets by September 21. Despite the shock, the family behind the company is optimistic: "We are now taking one step after the other. Sometimes one door closes and another opens." This hope for possible new opportunities could alleviate emotional farewell to a long tradition.