The end of an era: Galeria Karstadt Kaufhof reports bankruptcy and closes three Berlin branches
Berliner Galeria-Aus: Closure of three branches causes a sensation and bitterness among regular customers. Find out more live at Berlin.

The end of an era: Galeria Karstadt Kaufhof reports bankruptcy and closes three Berlin branches
The end of an era: close department store chains in Berlin
In the past, it was quite normal to find everything under one roof: from TVs to fishing accessories to suitcases. The large department stores were a paradise for everyone who liked to browse for hours between the different departments. But this era is coming to an end, because online shopping is increasingly conquering the world of retail.
A sad chapter closes for Galeria Karstadt Kaufhof, as the Signa Holding, the company behind the department store chain, has registered bankruptcy. In Berlin this even means the final end for three branches.
The consequences for the Berlin community
The upcoming closure of the Galeria branches in the Ring Center Lichtenberg, Tempelhof and Spandau leaves many regular customers. Gisela Rechenbach, a long-time customer, is outraged: "I've been a loyal galeria customer for at least 30 years. I would have liked the business to be preserved. I live in Biesdorf, and the house here was always my first point of contact for everything I need."
The search for a new tenant for the premises in the Ring Center is already underway, but what happens to the employees remains uncertain. According to the company's press office, the employees were not allowed to publicly comment on the closure process.
a ray of hope for the future?
The future of retail in Berlin is uncertain, but many hope for new concepts and ideas that can fill the gap that leave the traditional department store chains. The digitized world opens up new ways of shopping, but some customers will miss the charm of the old department stores and personal advice.
It remains to be seen whether the closure of the Galeria branches in Berlin or whether there will be a renaissance of inpatient retail. However, the changes cannot be overlooked, and they leave many with a wistful look back at a time when shopping was more than just one click.
- Nag