Austria sees falling insolvencies while Simplon and Naturkost Erfurt face restructuring

In Austria, corporate insolvencies decreased by 5.8 percent in the first half of 2026 compared to the previous year, making it the only country in the D-A-CH region to see such a decline. However, insolvencies among established companies aged 16 years or older have increased due to structural shifts like digitalization and the energy transition.

Specific business failures highlight ongoing economic pressures. The Austrian bicycle manufacturer Simplon, operating as 2Rad Produktions GmbH, has filed for restructuring without self-administration for the second time in two years. The company faces debts exceeding €33 million, affecting 54 employees. Management cited component shortages, a weak European market, and issues regarding the previous company takeover as primary causes.

In Germany, the organic wholesaler Naturkost Erfurt has also entered insolvency proceedings in self-administration. The company, which employs approximately 65 people across Erfurt and Schkeuditz, aims to continue operations while seeking a long-term partner or integration into a larger group to address rising costs and declining sales.