Genuss-Bäckerei Tillmann files for insolvency in Sauerland

Genuss-Bäckerei Tillmann, a traditional family-owned bakery based in Balve, has filed for insolvency. The company, which has operated for over sixty years, employs 105 people across eight locations, including branches in Menden, Sundern, Neuenrade, and Werdohl, as well as an ice cream parlor and a sales vehicle.

Owner Rainer Tillmann cited several compounding factors for the financial crisis, including a weak economy, increased personnel and fuel costs, rising minimum wages, and bureaucratic burdens. Additionally, local construction projects near several branches have hindered customer access, while intense price competition from supermarket discounters has further strained the business.

The Arnsberg District Court has appointed Dr. Jan Janßen as the preliminary insolvency administrator to review the company's economic situation. Despite the filing, the bakery intends to continue production and sales at all locations for the time being, with salaries reportedly secured for the next three months. The goal of the insolvency proceedings is to restructure the business and preserve as many jobs and locations as possible.