Schuh Graf in crisis: 27 branches remain open despite bankruptcy!

Schuh Graf in crisis: 27 branches remain open despite bankruptcy!

Schuh Graf GmbH & Co. KG, a traditional company from Fellbach near Stuttgart, has filed for self-administration bankruptcy. Since it was founded in 1938 by Julius Graf, the company has operated 27 branches and employs around 160 people. In addition to the in-house brands Schuh-Mann and QUICK SCHUH, Schuh Graf also operates in the international franchise business with around 140 franchisees in Germany and Austria. The insolvency proceedings were opened on June 3, 2025 by the Stuttgart District Court, with Steffen Beck from the PLUTA law firm acting as general representative, as merkur.de reports.

In particular, economic problems caused by a weak economy, the trend towards online trading and high inflation led to the application for insolvency proceedings. Despite these challenges, the company remains optimistic and wants to develop a comprehensive restructuring concept in collaboration with management.

Branches remain open

All of the company's 27 stores will remain open during the process, allowing customers to continue shopping in stores. The employees can also look forward to wages and salaries, as these are covered for three months by the insolvency benefit from the employment agency, as schwaebische-post.de adds.

Schuh Graf employs a total of 160 people, including those in the branches in Schwäbisch Gmünd and Mutlangen. Dr. Tibor Daniel Braun was appointed interim administrator to oversee the restructuring process.

Redevelopment plan in progress

The goal of the company management is the long-term continuation of the business. To this end, Schuh Graf is planning to negotiate new conditions with business partners. The hope is that the restructuring process will not only secure the company, but also strengthen its competitiveness. Managing director Götz M. Graf is optimistic about the upcoming steps and their prospects for success.