Building vacated in Essen
In the heart of Essen's Bredeney district, the once bustling Karstadt headquarters opened its doors almost 60 years ago. However, times have changed, and the retail giant has recently vacated the premises.
The departure of Karstadt was a result of a takeover by new owners, who decided to relocate the headquarters. The exact date of the move is not explicitly stated, but it is implied that the move occurred prior to 2025, as Müller is planning to fill the gap left by Karstadt with new store openings in late 2026.
The move has had a significant impact on the local workforce, with approximately 690 jobs at the Essen headquarters being affected. At its peak, the Karstadt headquarters employed around 3,000 people.
The new location of the Karstadt headquarters has not been disclosed, marking a departure from its long-standing history in Essen. This move is a significant change for the corporation, which has faced multiple financial difficulties, insolvency proceedings, and renamings in recent years.
Despite the change, the retail industry continues to evolve. Nationwide, there are currently around 80 Galeria branches, down from the peak of Karstadt's operations. The corporation's exit from Essen is a testament to the dynamic nature of the retail sector, as it adapts to changing consumer habits and market conditions.
