Hornbach to acquire six Hellweg locations following insolvency

Hornbach has announced plans to expand its German retail network by acquiring six locations from the insolvent hardware chain Hellweg. The targeted sites are located in Ahrensfelde, Berlin-Köpenick, Dortmund-Kley, Essen-Borbeck, Freiberg in Sachsen, and St. Augustin. If approved by the Federal Cartel Office and confirmed by the insolvency plan, Hornbach intends to take over the sites in December 2026 and reopen them under its own brand in early 2027.

The acquisition follows broader financial instability within the Hellweg group, which also includes BayWa Bau- und Gartenmärkte. Both entities have filed for insolvency. While some BayWa locations in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg face potential closure, investors have been identified for several sites to ensure continued operation and employment. However, the group expects to close its central offices in Dortmund and Garching, affecting approximately 340 employees.