BayWa and Hellweg launch clearance sales in Bavaria following insolvency

DIY retail chains BayWa Bau & Garten and Hellweg have launched massive clearance sales across Bavaria following insolvency filings. The sales, which began on 7 September, offer deep discounts across entire product ranges, including tools, building materials, paints, and gardening equipment.

The restructuring follows debtor-in-possession insolvency proceedings filed at the Essen District Court in mid-June 2026. The liquidation affects 30 BayWa Bau & Garten branches throughout Bavaria, including locations in Nuremberg, Fürth, Würzburg, Passau, and Regensburg. Hellweg is also conducting a clearance sale at its standalone branch in Bad Kissingen.

Retail executives attributed the financial distress to several factors: consumer reluctance to spend, rising energy, rental, and operating costs, supply chain disruptions, and a weak construction market. While some locations may be taken over by competitors, the investor process is ongoing. If no investors are found, affected locations may close by the end of November 2026. The restructuring impacts 46 locations across Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, affecting approximately 1,300 employees.