Overview

• Hellweg will shut ten outlets by August, affecting mainly North Rhine-Westphalia sites and additional markets in Hessen, Berlin and Sachsen-Anhalt.
• The decision follows a surge in energy costs and persistent high inflation that have eroded profit margins across its network.
• Clearance sales under way at the closing stores offer up to 50 percent discounts as the chain liquidates remaining inventory.
• The retailer operates 95 stores in Germany and Austria and employs about 4,000 staff, though it has not disclosed staffing plans for the closures.
• Handelsblatt has described the curtailments as a "liberating blow" that could strengthen Hellweg's long-term financial position.