Kaufland Announces €500 Million Plan Following Hygiene Scandal

The supermarket chain has closed two stores, replaced their leadership, and pledged significant investments to address systemic hygiene issues uncovered by investigative reporting.

A joint investigation by Stern and RTL revealed severe hygiene problems in 48 out of 50 Kaufland stores, including mold, mouse infestations, and contaminated chicken meat.
Kaufland has temporarily closed its Homburg and Bad Tölz locations for renovations and replaced their leadership following the revelations.
The company announced a €500 million annual investment plan to upgrade infrastructure, replace cooling systems, and improve hygiene standards across all stores.
External experts will be engaged to enhance employee training on food safety and hygiene, as part of a broader corrective strategy.
The findings have intensified public and political calls for stricter food safety regulations and greater transparency in inspection processes.