pvwerk GmbH is a sister company to ENERPARC AG, which has been in provisional insolvency administration since 7 September 2026. Attorney Mr Stefan Denkhaus from law firm BRL has been appointed provisional insolvency administrator in those proceedings.

Business continuing to operate

ENERPARC AG is a well-known developer and operator of solar farms, while pvwerk GmbH specialises in the construction of the photovoltaic systems and, more recently, the installation of battery storage systems.

pvwerk GmbH’s decision to enter debtor-in-possession proceedings has been prompted by its sister company’s insolvency. Since its establishment in 2011, pvwerk GmbH has constructed more than 500 solar farms with a total output of over 5.5 gigawatts.

The company employs approximately 60 people. They are responsible for setting up the solar farms and battery storage facilities, up to and including their commissioning, and collaborate with business partners on this. With such highly skilled employees and its own machine fleet, the company can ensure the competitive construction of state-of-the-art solar farms.

The employees’ salaries are guaranteed for a period of three months thanks to specific substitute benefits provided under German insolvency law. The business continues to operate and is aiming to complete the solar farms and battery storage facilities already under construction. To this end, those in charge will conduct a detailed analysis of these projects over the coming days and weeks to identify which could be brought to completion. With approximately 100 solar farm and battery storage projects commissioned by ENERPARC AG currently under construction, close coordination is being maintained with Mr Stefan Denkhaus, the provisional insolvency administrator for ENERPARC AG.

Launching the process of finding an investor

Managing director Mr Florian Gösch said, “We want to complete the solar farms under construction if at all possible so that these can be quickly connected to the grid. We will therefore work closely with our client ENERPARC AG to prioritise those projects and demonstrate the value of completing them. In doing so, we also want to establish the conditions for pvwerk GmbH’s long-term continuation, because we are convinced we have a competitive business model.”

Mr Bernd Richter from PLUTA said, “pvwerk GmbH has a number of unique selling points that underpin its competitive position. If the solar farms and battery storage facilities under construction are to be completed, this will require pvwerk GmbH’s excellent technical project management as well as a reliable estimate of the completion costs agreed with ENERPARC AG. We are confident that, on this basis, we can demonstrate the economic benefits of completing the projects under construction and will also establish a long-term continuation strategy for pvwerk GmbH, which should appeal to investors as well.”

Provisional insolvency monitor Dr Tjark Thies said, “Provided that the individual projects are commercially viable, funding the solar farms under construction is in the interests of the creditors of both pvwerk GmbH and ENERPARC AG. We will therefore work closely with the provisional insolvency administrator for ENERPARC AG to try and complete all projects underway if possible.”

Founded as a spin-off of the Fraunhofer Institute for Secure Information Technology in 2009, cosee GmbH develops bespoke software solutions for customers in various sectors. It assembles tailored teams of experts for the entire innovation process – from the assessment of the initial business ideas and the development of software and prototypes through to product management, technical implementation and market launch.

Business operations maintained since filing for insolvency

Despite the filing, those in charge have kept the IT company fully operational. The business provided services to customers as usual during the provisional proceedings and continued working on ongoing projects. It has an experienced team and extensive expertise in the development of digital products and solutions. This provided a solid basis for the process of finding an investor, which has now been successfully concluded. The experts at Redwood Partners supported the M&A process.

PLUTA attorney Mr Philip Konen said, “The business has continued to operate over the past three months and the employees have supported customers as usual. With the sale to a strategic investor, we have managed to create a sustainable basis for the future of the company and its employees. This is also the best possible outcome for the creditors.”

Haeger Consulting GmbH in Bonn provides IT consultancy services and develops tailored solutions based on the latest technology. It focuses on IT projects, specialising in particular in software development, software architecture, test automation and DevOps.

Managing director Mr Ralf Haeger said, “We see considerable potential in the employees’ expertise and the customer relationships, and we believe this is a useful addition to our existing business model. With cosee by our side, we are now in a stronger position than we have ever been to offer complete solutions in IT projects and grow further together.”

The road so far has been a difficult one – since filing for insolvency in November of last year, the association has engaged closely and extensively with creditors, the court, the insolvency monitor and advisors on its financial restructuring. These efforts have paid off: practically all jobs – approximately 870 in total – have been saved. All of the facilities run by the association for Bocholt, Isselburg and Rhede will be maintained.

“We are absolutely delighted that we have successfully navigated and completed this challenging restructuring together. The past few months have been very demanding for everyone involved, including our staff, our committees and myself personally. I am therefore all the more pleased that we have now come through this difficult period – our Caritas Association will be stronger going forward and we can look to the future with confidence. I would especially like to thank everyone who has supported us on this journey for their trust, patience and great commitment,” said board member Ms Claudia Soggeberg.

“The termination of the proceedings marks the close of a significant chapter. The Caritas Association can now act completely freely and independently again – this bodes really well for our employees and for the people who rely on our services. We have learned a great deal from this experience and are now firmly focused on the future,” added Mr Boris Lietz, the new board member responsible for commercial affairs.

“The proceedings will be terminated as scheduled on 31 August 2026, marking a fitting end to this successful debtor-in-possession process. The Caritas Association has shown that it can continue to operate effectively and reliably, even in challenging circumstances. I am delighted that we have been able to engage with all of the parties involved to find a sustainable way forward for the association and its employees,” said restructuring expert Mr Markus Freitag from law firm AndresPartner, who has been acting as general agent. He and his team have successfully guided the Caritas Association for Bocholt, Isselburg and Rhede through the proceedings.

The Caritas Association would like to express its sincere gratitude to everyone who has supported this process in recent months – the creditors for their trust; attorney Dr Ria Brüninghoff, the court-appointed insolvency monitor, and her team from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH; the advisors at the AndresPartner law firm and, most particularly, the employees for their tremendous commitment throughout this journey.

PLUTA attorney Dr Ria Brüninghoff said, “The proceedings have been conducted in a highly structured manner from the outset. All of the parties involved have worked together superbly and pursued the common goal of preserving the Caritas Association in its existing structure. These efforts have clearly paid off, as more than 95% of the association’s jobs have been saved. At the same time, we have achieved the best possible outcome in the interests of the creditors in these proceedings.”

Caritasverband für Bocholt, Isselburg und Rhede e. V. is a registered non-profit association. It provides numerous facilities and services in the social sector in the cities of Bocholt, Borken, Isselburg and Rhede. Its main focus is on care and elderly services, assistance for people with disabilities and children with developmental delays, and programmes for kids, adolescents and families in need of support.

Immediately upon Mr Bananyarli’s appointment, the PLUTA team visited the business to conduct an initial review of its economic situation. Attorney Mr Bananyarli is currently working with his team (which also includes attorney Mr Sven Heuser) to assess the company’s financial position and ways to ensure its continued operation. He is also talking with key business partners in this regard.

“We set about gaining an initial overview immediately upon my appointment, and will conduct a detailed analysis of the company’s financial position over the next few days. We want to stabilise its operations and review the options available to it going forward,” said Mr Bananyarli. In the coming days, the restructuring expert and his team will also prepare a structured process aimed at finding an investor.

Business continuing to operate

Lindenfarb Textilveredlung GmbH remains fully operational and all orders are being handled. Those in charge have informed the employees about the current situation. The wages and salaries of the approximately 110 employees are guaranteed for a period of three months thanks to specific substitute benefits from the Federal Employment Agency provided under German insolvency law. Pre-financing of these benefits is currently being arranged.

The company has had to file for insolvency due to liquidity problems caused by a number of factors, including a decline in orders primarily attributable to the challenging macroeconomic environment. The business has also been suffering from significantly higher costs, for example for energy.

Lindenfarb Textilveredlung GmbH operates in the area of textile finishing. By its own account, the long-standing company, based in the Unterkochen district of Aalen, is Europe’s largest provider of textile finishing services. It focuses on technical textiles, especially for the automotive industry but also for the aerospace, medical, industrial, construction and clothing sectors. The range of services offered includes dyeing, bleaching, washing, cleaning, coating and advanced finishing of textiles. It has been headquartered in the Unterkochen district of Aalen since 1952.

The sale of the software and related rights also gives customers a positive outlook: mosaic IT GmbH will soon make Deskcenter customers an offer that will allow them to continue using the software. Customers can also read about this at www.deskcenter.com and www.mosaic-it.de.

As a service provider, mosaic IT GmbH bundles security and cloud solutions designed to safeguard and optimise customers’ business processes. It too is headquartered in Leipzig and has already been working with Deskcenter AG for many years.

“It was important to us to find a solution that would preserve the value of the software, while giving customers a positive outlook. We have created a sound basis for this with the sale to mosaic IT GmbH,” said insolvency administrator Dr Stephan Thiemann.

Mr Michael Bölk, manging director of mosaic IT GmbH, said, “Both companies have already worked hand in hand, so this was a logical step for us. We are pleased to have quickly reached a solution that not only usefully expands our security portfolio but also gives Deskcenter customers a way to continue using the software.”

Best possible value in the interests of the creditors

The Local Court of Leipzig, as the competent court, opened the insolvency proceedings for the assets of Deskcenter AG and appointed attorney Dr Stephan Thiemann from PLUTA as insolvency administrator on 1 August 2026. The restructuring team and management had already held numerous discussions with potential investors during the provisional insolvency proceedings. Ultimately, an acquisition could not be completed as investor financing could not be secured in time. To the regret of those in charge, the business had to cease trading in early August due to the lack of an investor.

The software has significant technological value. “We marketed the assets in a targeted manner and have achieved the best possible value in the interests of the creditors with this sale,” said PLUTA attorney Mr Heinz-Joachim Hombach, who is working alongside Mr Norman Scheller in the administrator’s restructuring team. Mr Enrico Noack from TRINUS-Restrukturierung GmbH also provided support.

The provisional administrator has already made an important decision: the furniture supplier is to continue operating. The necessary conditions for this are being reviewed.

DOMO Collection GmbH based in Hude was founded in 2011. The owner-managed company specialises in the development and sale of high-quality upholstered furniture. Its functional designs and harmonious material compositions have made the business an established supplier of upholstered furniture in Germany. Its range includes sofas, armchairs and more.

The company has had to file for insolvency on account of liquidity problems. This liquidity crisis is firstly attributable to lower-than-expected sales due to the widespread restraint in consumer spending in Germany. Sales are also generally lower in the summer, and efforts to offer a seasonal line were unsuccessful this time around, unlike in previous years. The company has therefore filed for insolvency to facilitate a restructuring within the framework of insolvency proceedings. DOMO Collection GmbH employs 24 people, whose salaries are guaranteed until the end of September thanks to specific substitute benefits provided under German insolvency law. Those in charge already informed the employees about the current situation during a staff meeting. The PLUTA restructuring team will now arrange for pre-financing of the benefits so that the employees’ salaries can be paid as usual. In addition to Dr Christian Kaufmann, the team comprises attorney Mr Alexander Bortfeldt and business management expert Dr André Schulte.

DOMO has its furniture manufactured via a subsidiary in Poland, Oflor Sp. z o.o. based in Psarskie, for which it has also filed an insolvency application. The Local Court of Oldenburg, as the competent court, appointed Dr Christian Kaufmann as provisional insolvency administrator in those proceedings as well on 6 August 2026. The business in Poland employs around 245 people. The PLUTA team has already visited it and informed the employees about the current situation. The intention is to keep the business operational.

The focus over the coming weeks will be on further collaboration with sales partners. It will also be important to ensure the continued operation of the manufacturing facilities in Poland. PLUTA attorney Dr Christian Kaufmann said, “Our main priority at this time is to maintain business operations on a stable footing and reliably fulfil the orders. We are holding detailed discussions with all key business partners with this in mind. Our next step will be to carefully review all of the restructuring options and target potential investors to enable continued operations.”

Managing director Mr Ulf Vietor said, “Given the considerable deterioration in economic conditions in recent months, we were left with no alternative but to take this step. We are now focused on working with the provisional insolvency administrator to explore all options for developing a long-term solution for our business.”

All conditions set out in the insolvency plan have now been met. The investor, Kids & School Holding GmbH, has acquired the business operations and key assets. The Local Court of Idar-Oberstein has terminated the proceedings. As of 1 August 2026, the long-standing toy retailer will be able to put the insolvency proceedings behind it and therefore make a fresh start from a legal perspective as well. Approximately 1,150 jobs have been saved through the solution.

Back in April 2026, ROFU Kinderland announced that the company had been able to conclude an investor agreement with Kids & School Holding GmbH. The investor solution was implemented within the framework of the insolvency plan. With the approval of the creditors’ assembly, the business operations have now been acquired and the transaction has been completed. ROFU Kinderland will be able to operate independently again in the future. With their decades of extensive industry experience and an excellent network, managing partners Mr Achim Weniger and Mr Bernd Stocker have what is needed to put ROFU Kinderland on a viable, economically sound footing.

PLUTA restructuring experts create path forward

ROFU Kinderland Spielwarenhandelsgesellschaft GmbH has been involved in debtor-in-possession proceedings since 19 January 2026. Under such an arrangement, management remains in charge and is supported by restructuring specialists. Mr Marcus Katholing from PLUTA Management GmbH has been acting as chief restructuring officer for the past six months and taken important restructuring measures together with managing director Mr Michael Fuchs. The restructuring team also comprises Ms Daniela Schneider as well as attorney Mr Stefan Warmuth from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH, who has been responsible for providing advice on matters of insolvency law. The Local Court of Idar-Oberstein appointed attorney Ms Annemarie Dhonau from law firm Schiebe & Collegen as insolvency monitor to oversee the proceedings in the interests of creditors.

PLUTA restructuring expert Mr Marcus Katholing, acting as interim managing director of ROFU, said, “The creditors’ unanimous approval of the insolvency plan sends a strong signal and provides clarity on ROFU’s future. I would like to thank everyone involved for their excellent cooperation and their confidence in the restructuring approach taken. I wish the company and the investors every success going forward.” The aim of the proceedings was to enable the company to reposition itself economically and structurally. Those in charge have achieved this objective, and the debtor-in-possession proceedings have gone to plan. Mr Marcus Katholing and Mr Michael Fuchs will therefore, as planned, step down from management at the end of the month.

Insolvency monitor Ms Annemarie Dhonau from law firm Schiebe und Collegen has also welcomed the creditors’ decision: “The solution reached through these debtor-in-possession proceedings secures ROFU’s long-term future while ensuring the creditors’ claims are satisfied to the greatest extent possible. The constructive cooperation between all of the parties involved has contributed in a significant way to this outcome.”

77 ROFU stores to continue operating

Operations at the ROFU stores have been maintained without interruption during recent months. The company has also improved processes and taken steps to increase efficiency in inventory and space management and work more closely in partnership with suppliers. Going forward, 77 ROFU Kinderland stores will continue operating. 27 locations are not part of the acquisition concept. Those stores will hold a clearance sale until the end of July 2026, after which they will be returned to the respective landlords. The headquarters will remain at its current location in Hoppstädten-Weiersbach. The company will employ approximately 1,150 people going forward.

“We are looking forward to further developing ROFU in the future. Our goal is to strengthen ROFU’s market position as a brick-and-mortar toy retailer and position it for long-term success. We would also like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank everyone involved for the excellent and very constructive cooperation in recent months,” said Mr Achim Weniger from Kids & School Holding GmbH. The new investor wants to take targeted measures to make ROFU profitable and steer it towards a positive future. The focus will be on efficient processes and strategic partnerships to ensure the stores are run economically. The long-standing company with a large store network offers fantastic ranges for children and families, comprehensive services and in-store advice.

ROFU Kinderland is the leading toy retailer in the southwest of Germany. The company has been selling toys from all well-known brands for over 40 years. Children’s books, school supplies, craft kits, puzzles and board games round out its offering. With stores in six German states, ROFU has established itself as a leading specialist toy retailer.

The restructuring process is being implemented within the framework of debtor-in-possession proceedings. Attorney Mr Steffen Beck from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH has been engaged as chief restructuring officer (CRO) for the group. The local court has appointed attorney Dr Tibor Daniel Braun from IBK Illig Braun Kirschnek Rechtsanwälte PartGmbB as provisional insolvency monitor.

All of the company’s 13 stores remain fully operational, and customers can continue to shop there as usual. The wages and salaries of the approximately 200 employees are also guaranteed.

Challenging economic situation for the industry

The fashion industry is currently grappling with a combination of weak consumer demand, rising operating costs and intensive competition. These trends are posing significant challenges for brick-and-mortar retailers in particular and increasing the pressure to adapt to changing market conditions.

The company successfully concluded initial restructuring proceedings within the framework of an insolvency plan in December 2024. All of the measures envisaged at the time were implemented. However, the challenging economic environment in brick-and-mortar fashion retailing, weak consumer demand and increased operating costs have again placed the company under considerable strain. It was also significantly impacted by a cyberattack in 2025, which resulted in both substantial costs and a further decline in sales.

During the present proceedings, comprehensive restructuring measures and a management team reorganisation are now planned to bolster the restructuring with the existing expertise within the company and establish the conditions for its sustainable continuation.

Implementation of necessary restructuring measures

“The debtor-in-possession proceedings give us the opportunity to continue pursuing the planned restructuring strategy and take the measures needed to safeguard the company’s future prospects while providing security for its employees, customers and suppliers,” said Mr Steffen Beck, chief restructuring officer as part of the debtor-in-possession proceedings. The PLUTA team also comprises attorneys Mr Jonas Scheble and Mr Jannik Stephan as well as business lawyer Ms Sarah Dingler.

The provisional insolvency monitor is overseeing the restructuring proceedings and representing the interests of the creditors.

Insolvency administrator Mr Philip Konen from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH said, “The family holiday village has raised sufficient funding and fully achieved its objective. This means we can now finalise the insolvency plan and submit it to the local court without delay.”

The next steps are to submit the insolvency plan and hold a discussion and voting meeting of the creditors’ assembly. Familienferiendorf Hübingen e.V. will be saved if a majority of creditors approve the insolvency plan.

Settlement with creditors

Under an insolvency plan, the legal entity is preserved. The plan is structured to achieve an agreement with the creditors. Through the debt relief as part of its insolvency plan, the association will be able to exit the insolvency proceedings and operate independently again following the court’s termination of the proceedings. The rescue capital had to be raised to ensure the creditors are better off under the insolvency plan than in liquidation. The Familienferiendorf Hübingen Foundation established last year therefore held various activities and fundraisers in recent weeks and months, through which it collected numerous donations. Thanks to the funds raised, it can now financially support the Familienferiendorf Hübingen e.V. association.

PLUTA restructuring expert Mr Philip Konen said, “The level of financial support has been impressive and sends a strong signal. I am really delighted that we have reached a milestone in the rescue of this well-known holiday village. We now need the creditors’ approval. After the many discussions in recent weeks, I am optimistic that they will approve the insolvency plan.”

Dr Hanno Heil, chairperson of the Familienferiendorf Hübingen Foundation, said, “We greatly appreciate the tremendous solidarity and support, shown in big and small ways. At the same time, we know we will continue to need assistance going forward to maintain our buildings and carry out further refurbishment work on them. We are therefore especially pleased that we already have a commitment in place for a high six-figure donation following the conclusion of the insolvency proceedings that we will be able to use for the urgent renovation of our holiday homes. This will put our holiday village on a sustainable footing for the future.”

General manager Mr Michael Nagel said, “We would like to sincerely thank everyone who has donated as well as all who have stood by us during this difficult period. A family holiday village operated on a non-profit basis is more important than ever in these challenging economic times. Going forward, we want to remain a special place for children, young people and families.”

Association in insolvency proceedings for past nine months

Around 30 people work for Familienferiendorf Hübingen e.V., and all remain on board. Neither the association nor the insolvency administrator have taken any personnel measures. Dr Hanno Heil, the association’s chairperson, and his colleagues have shown great commitment in supporting the proceedings and the continued operation of the holiday village over the past nine months.

The Familienferiendorf Hübingen e.V. association filed for insolvency in autumn 2025. Following this, on 30 October 2025, the Local Court of Montabaur ordered provisional insolvency administration and appointed PLUTA attorney Mr Philip Konen as provisional administrator. On 1 February 2026, the court opened the insolvency proceedings as planned and appointed Mr Philip Konen as regular administrator. Despite the proceedings having been opened, the holiday village is still fully operational. Guests are welcome and all services are being provided as usual. All stakeholders support its efforts to continue operating. Mr Philip Konen is being supported in the proceedings by PLUTA attorneys Ms Denise Schäfer and Mr Philipp Meyer.

Familienferiendorf Hübingen e.V., a registered association, is the operator of the holiday village in the Westerwald region. The association has had a strong Christian ethos since its foundation in the 1960s and specialises in family holidays and group visits. The holiday village has 40 holiday homes, all of which feature a combined kitchen/living room, two to four bedrooms, a bathroom and a deck with garden furniture. The site also has a tepee, a circus tent, a circus wagon, various function rooms for groups and a peace chapel for religious worship, events, choir rehearsals, concerts and seminars. The family holiday village is open from February through to December.

Dr Brüninghoff is keeping the nursing home in Melle’s Neuenkirchen district fully operational. The support and nursing care provided to residents are also being maintained at the same level as before. Nothing will change for residents, family members or employees as a result of the court order at this time. The company employs 106 people and runs the currently 70-bed facility. The provisional insolvency administrator and her team are conducting a comprehensive review of its financial situation and holding initial discussions with management and stakeholders.

Sustainable continuation solution for the facility

In parallel to this, ways of achieving a sustainable continuation solution for the facility are being explored. Initial discussions in this regard have already taken place. The PLUTA restructuring team, which includes attorney Mr Frank Schorisch and tax consultant Mr Martin Klee, is preparing the pre-financing of the insolvency substitute benefits provided under German law. These will ensure that the employees’ wages and salaries are secure for a period of up to three months. The employees were given detailed information on the current situation during a staff meeting held yesterday. Immediately on being appointed, provisional insolvency administrator Dr Ria Brüninghoff also reached out to the relevant residential care supervision authority.

Liquidity problems have led to the company filing for insolvency. In addition to the general rise in costs, economic conditions have also put a strain on the facility’s finances.

Dr Ria Brüninghoff said, “Our main priority is to ensure the residents continue to receive high-quality care. At the same time, we will carefully analyse the financial situation and explore all options for a long-term solution for the facility. We want to work with all stakeholders, and especially with the staff, to establish a sustainable way forward for this retirement home.”

Care operations continue without restriction

Staff are continuing to look after the residents as before. All nursing care, support and other services are being provided as usual. The facility is also continuing to work as closely as ever with family members, doctors, therapists and other partners.

Over the coming weeks, those in charge will thoroughly analyse the financial situation and hold further discussions with all relevant stakeholders. The goal is to develop a viable future plan for the facility as soon as possible.

The nursing home has been operating for a long time. Founded as Lazarus Hospital in 1902, the facility with a modern building and spacious gardens now serves as a home to the elderly. Providing dignified, individually tailored care and enabling residents to lead self-determined lives are central to the approach at the facility in Melle. It places a strong emphasis on bright living and communal areas, a pleasant ambience and high standards in nursing care, housekeeping and support.

In early May, the Local Court of Augsburg, as the competent insolvency court, ordered provisional insolvency administration for J.N. Eberle & Cie. GmbH and Greiffenberger AG and appointed attorney Mr Georg Jakob Stemshorn from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH as provisional administrator. He has maintained business operations ever since, and all orders are still being processed.

Eberle’s roots go back to 1836. The company specialises in the manufacture of quality steel products, including band saws and precision and bimetal strip steel as well as circular saws, coolants and lubricants, and other commercial products. Quality is ultimately what matters to Eberle, for example when it comes to edge accuracy. With its customised solutions, the company can also meet specific customer requirements.

Mr Gernot Egretzberger, managing director of Eberle, said, “The process of finding an investor is going well and the offers are encouraging. I see this as recognition of the quality of our products and our worldwide distribution network.”

Agreement reached on lease

In parallel to this, those in charge have reached agreement on a lease extension for the headquarters in Augsburg. The existing lease will be extended from September 2027 to late 2029, with the option to further extend to late 2030.

Provisional insolvency administrator Mr Georg Jakob Stemshorn said, “The lease extension gives us greater planning certainty in the ongoing search for an investor, strengthening the basis for a continuation solution. Our goal remains to find a suitable investor in summer 2026.”

The discussions with the interested parties have shown that the investors are pursuing different approaches to the potential acquisition. The analysis of Eberle’s financial situation has also clearly indicated that personnel measures will be needed in the coming weeks to align the cost base with business performance.

The next step is to hold further discussions with the interested parties and obtain binding offers, which the restructuring expert will then thoroughly review. In addition to Mr Stemshorn, the PLUTA team also includes business lawyer Mr Maximilian König.

Mr Markus Fischer, a partner at EY-Parthenon, and project manager Dr Daniel Blum are responsible for conducting the process of securing an investor.

Eurotech Guss Schwäbisch Gmünd GmbH has specialised in the development and manufacture of high-quality aluminium castings and assemblies since 1936. The company has many years of experience in aluminium casting technology and supplies advanced solutions to customers across a wide range of sectors. Those in charge informed the approximately 80 employees about the latest developments last week. Their salaries are guaranteed for a period of three months thanks to specific substitute benefits provided under German insolvency law.

The company intends to use the debtor-in-possession restructuring proceedings to realign its business operations and ensure its long-term competitiveness. The management team will retain authority to act and issue instructions. It is being supported by attorney Mr Henning Necker from the Kanzlei FNB GbR law firm, who is acting as legal adviser. The court has appointed Mr Florian Zistler from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH as provisional insolvency monitor. The attorney will oversee the proceedings and represent the interests of the creditors.

“Working together to create a sustainable path forward”

Managing director Mr Ralf Brinschwitz said, “The proceedings will give us the opportunity to restructure our company while maintaining business operations and get it back on a solid long-term financial footing.” He added, “We are focused on keeping the business operating on a stable basis and working together with our customers, employees and business partners to create a sustainable path forward for the company.”

The filing is due to the persistently challenging economic environment. Reduced investment activity in key customer segments, rising costs and the general economic uncertainty have led to declining capacity utilisation. These developments have also impacted the financial situation of Eurotech Guss Schwäbisch Gmünd GmbH, which will use the proceedings to achieve a sustainable repositioning.

“Debtor-in-possession proceedings offer a legal framework within which the necessary restructuring measures can be taken in a timely manner. We will work with management to comprehensively analyse the financial situation and draw up a workable restructuring concept. The continued operation of the business is a key prerequisite for this,” said legal adviser Mr Henning Necker, an attorney with the Kanzlei FNB GbR tax consultancy and law firm.

The application for the opening of debtor-in-possession proceedings was filed in late November of last year. The intention was to sustainably restructure the association, restore its financial viability and safeguard as many jobs and facilities as possible. This aim has been achieved. Approximately 870 jobs – and thus the vast majority of positions – have been saved. Staffing adjustments have been unavoidable in just a few areas to ensure the association’s long-term viability.

“The creditors’ approval is a strong vote of confidence and confirms the restructuring approach we have taken. This is the culmination of months of hard work, which has placed considerable demands on all those involved. We would especially like to thank our employees, who have demonstrated great commitment, professionalism and loyalty in supporting this process,” said board member Ms Claudia Soggeberg. Mr Boris Lietz, the new board member responsible for commercial affairs, added, “It is now time for us to look to the future and consistently pursue the transformation process we have begun.”

“The approval of the insolvency plan by such a clear majority represents a very positive outcome for these debtor-in-possession proceedings. It shows that the creditors were persuaded by the prepared restructuring concept, which sets out a sustainable way forward for the association. I am particularly pleased that it has been possible to save the vast majority of the jobs. Once the remaining formalities have been completed, I would expect the insolvency proceedings to be terminated in the near future. The association will therefore be well positioned for a successful future,” said general agent Mr Markus Freitag. The attorney and restructuring expert from law firm AndresPartner and his team have been supporting the Caritas Association throughout the entire debtor-in-possession proceedings.

Mr Freitag pointed out that the restructuring process has not yet been fully completed with the approval of the insolvency plan, as some final formalities remain. Once these procedural steps required by law have been completed, it is anticipated that the debtor-in-possession proceedings will shortly be terminated.

The association will consistently pursue the restructuring process it has begun and continue to implement the planned measures. It is therefore looking ahead to the coming years with confidence and considers itself well positioned to reliably and sustainably fulfil its social mandate going forward as well.

The proceedings have also been supported by the court-appointed insolvency monitor Dr Ria Brüninghoff and her team at PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH. “I am pleased that we have been able to successfully navigate this restructuring process together and that our approach has now been further validated by the creditors’ overwhelming approval of the insolvency plan.”

Caritasverband für Bocholt, Isselburg und Rhede e.V. is a registered non-profit association. It provides numerous facilities and services in the social sector in the cities of Bocholt, Borken, Isselburg and Rhede.

The business operates Hamburg’s well-known TamTam restaurant, which is currently closed as operations have been temporarily suspended. There is a possibility that operations may resume, but this mainly depends on whether a party is interested in acquiring the business. The company has a workforce of 16 employees.

PLUTA attorney Mr Philip Konen said, “We have held initial discussions with all involved and are urgently seeking an investor for the business. We would be pleased to hear from any interested parties.” The PLUTA team also comprises attorneys Ms Denise Schäfer and Mr Philipp Meyer.

Restaurant space covering approx. 2,000 square metres

The Local Court of Frankfurt am Main has ordered provisional insolvency administration, as Tasty Planet GmbH is headquartered and has its administrative offices in Frankfurt am Main. The business operates the TamTam restaurant in Hamburg’s Hanse district. The restaurant space is run by Tasty Planet GmbH but not owned by it and covers approximately 2,000 square metres.

TamTam offers a variety of cuisines, has a central bar area and regularly hosts events. The managing director is Mr Tim Plasse, who has been a recognised figure in the German gastronomy and hospitality industry for many years. The operating company has had to file for insolvency due to liquidity problems and is currently involved in provisional insolvency proceedings. Those in charge are in the process of examining the conditions for the opening of regular insolvency proceedings.

F-TECH GmbH specialises in maintenance, repair and industrial services for businesses in different sectors. On 1 July 2026, the Local Court of Passau opened the insolvency proceedings for the assets of F-TECH GmbH as planned and appointed attorney Mr Ivo-Meinert Willrodt from PLUTA as administrator. He had already been involved as provisional administrator since 19 May 2026, after the application had been filed. He is being supported in the proceedings by attorney Mr Stefan Riegger.

“We have been able to secure a viable solution with an investor within less than two months. With the Fourtech Group, we have found an investor from the region that will ensure the continuation of operations. This is a good outcome in a very short space of time, and it has been made possible by the tremendous commitment of all stakeholders,” said restructuring expert Mr Ivo-Meinert Willrodt.

Over the past few weeks, the team has reliably maintained operations and handled customer orders during the proceedings. The process of finding an investor was also conducted and has now been successfully concluded. The purchase agreement has been signed by the relevant parties, who have agreed not to disclose the details. All of F-TECH’s major customers will be supported by Fourtech Group GmbH going forwards.

Fourtech Group GmbH based in Hutthurm is an industrial company offering specialised industrial value creation and machine maintenance services. Founded in 2020, it combines technical advice, project management and tailored services for industrial customers.

Mr Jürgen Niggl, managing director of Fourtech Group GmbH, said, “By acquiring F-TECH GmbH, we are expanding our portfolio and continuing to pursue our growth strategy. This will allow us to offer our customers a broader range of services going forwards.”

On 3 July 2026, the court appointed restructuring expert Mr Torsten Gutmann from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH as provisional insolvency administrator. The attorney and his team will shortly analyse the financial situation and develop stabilisation measures with the intention of keeping the businesses operating and delivering a restructuring solution.

This step is linked to the strategic restructuring of Hofbrauhaus Wolters GmbH, which is fundamentally reorganising its operations as a debtor in possession. Mr Torsten Gutmann is acting as provisional insolvency monitor in the associated proceedings. The company is aiming to further refine its corporate structure, provide transparency regarding financial pressures and establish the conditions needed to ensure the sustainable continuation of its core business.

In an initial statement, PLUTA attorney Mr Torsten Gutmann said, “We have already gained an initial overview and are keeping both businesses operational. Beer production is therefore continuing at Colbitzer Heide-Brauerei GmbH, and Wolters Service GmbH is also maintaining its services.”

The employees’ salaries are guaranteed for a period of three months thanks to specific substitute benefits provided under German insolvency law. The process of securing pre-financing of these will soon be initiated so that the salaries can be paid as usual. The PLUTA team also comprises attorney Ms Veronique Hoffmann and business management expert Mr Andre Dins.

Colbitzer Heide-Brauerei GmbH is based in Saxony-Anhalt. The company employs five people, who produce high-quality beer.
Wolters Service GmbH has nine employees and provides all kinds of brewery-related services for Hofbrauhaus Wolters GmbH.

“This transaction is the result of a structured process in which we examined and assessed various potential courses of action. We wanted to find a solution that would ensure the continued existence of the austrion Life Group while also satisfying the claims of FWU AG’s creditors as fully as possible,” said Mr Ivo-Meinert Willrodt. The PLUTA team includes, among others, attorneys Mr Wolfgang Bernhardt (lead attorney in the proceedings), Mr Martin Jungclaus and Mr Stefan Riegger as well as industrial clerk Mr Hans-Christian Källner.

The closing of the transaction is still subject to regulatory approvals, including non-objection by the Austrian Financial Market Authority. Those in charge have already begun the appropriate consultations with the relevant authorities, which are proving constructive.

Agreement also the best possible outcome for creditors

In the view of the insolvency administrator for FWU AG, the signed agreement is a commercially viable solution that enables the orderly realisation of the stake, resulting in a higher dividend for the creditors. Mr Wolfgang Bernhardt, the lead attorney in the proceedings, added, “With this solution, we have achieved a commercially viable realisation that is in the interests of the creditors and the pledgee. This transaction also means continuity and stability for customers, sales partners and the company’s staff.”

The buyer, SKH Funding Limited, is a Guernsey-based company with an investor base comprising mandates and funds managed by Leadenhall Capital Partners LLP. The investment company specialises in insurance-linked investments and has many years of experience in this segment.

The austrion Life Group will continue to operate as an independent group in the market. The new shareholder, which positions itself as a long-term financial investor, emphasised the success of the company’s business strategy: “We are impressed with the development to date and have great confidence in the track record of the management team led by Ms Claudia Rainbacher and Mr Andreas Buxbaum and in the potential of the austrion Life Group as a whole and its business model. The austrion Life Group has repeatedly demonstrated the robustness of its business model in combination with positive market developments,” said Mr Andreas Tautscher, independent chair of SKH Funding Limited.

Management at the austrion Life Group has also welcomed the agreement. “With the new shareholder, we are gaining an experienced partner that backs our strategic orientation and will support the further development of the austrion Life Group,” said Ms Claudia Rainbacher, chair of the management board of austrion Life Insurance AG.

Bunny Tierernährung GmbH had been involved in provisional insolvency proceedings since 24 March 2026. The Local Court of Osnabrück opened the proceedings on 1 July 2026 and appointed Dr Ria Brüninghoff as insolvency administrator. In recent months, Dr Ria Brüninghoff and her team have conducted a structured process to find an investor, which has now been successfully concluded. This M&A process attracted strong interest from several renowned investors. Burgess Pet Care ultimately prevailed with the best offer in the highly competitive process. The business has continued operating without restrictions since the commencement of the proceedings, and customers have been able to place orders as usual. The continuation of the business was an important prerequisite for the successful search for an investor.

Dr Ria Brüninghoff from PLUTA said, “We have secured Bunny’s future with this investor solution. I am particularly pleased that all of the jobs have been saved. This is a very good outcome of the proceedings, and all stakeholders have played their part in achieving it. The employees showed full commitment, and the customers have stayed loyal to the business. I would also like to acknowledge the outstanding collaboration of all involved in the M&A process.”

The PLUTA team comprises attorney Dr Ria Brüninghoff, attorney Mr Leon Linz and Mr Christian Dartsch. In addition to Bunny Tierernährung GmbH, the associated management company World of Pets Verwaltungs GmbH is also involved in insolvency proceedings. Attorney Mr Marc Selker, also from PLUTA, is the insolvency administrator for that business. As both companies are closely interlinked, a coordinated approach has been needed. The employees of the management company have also been taken on by the investor.

Mr Moritz Miller and Ms Sophie Schmeißner from Auxil Management GmbH have been responsible for the M&A process. Mr Christoph Chardon and Dr Benjamin Büttner from elsässer Rechtsanwälte und Steuerberater GmbH have handled the legal aspects of the process. Ms Daniela Gunreben, also from elsässer, has provided employment law support. Attorney Mr Oliver Ruhe-Schweigel from law firm ks rechtsanwälte und notare, based in Essen, has been advising Burgess Pet Care on matters of insolvency law on the German side during the process.

Bunny Nature to be maintained as a distinct brand

Burgess will maintain Bunny Nature as a distinct brand within the group, preserving its identity, long-standing customer relationships and product quality. The existing team and the established structures will ensure continuity.

Founded in 1988, Bunny is known for its high-quality small animal feeds and has an established distribution network in the EU, North America and Asia. This international presence gives Burgess immediate access to a broad customer base and supports its ongoing strategy to further scale its global reach.

The combination of Burgess and Bunny Nature brings together two established brands that are rooted in science and share common values as well as a clear focus on animal health and nutrition. Both companies are highly complementary and will now have opportunities to bring tried-and-tested products to new markets via existing distribution networks.

Mr Mark Womersley, managing director of Burgess Pet Care, said, “This is a significant milestone for Burgess. Bunny Nature is a highly respected brand with genuine international reach, and its values, expertise and reputation align perfectly with our long-term ambition to create the world’s leading small animal nutrition brand.”

Oliver Petzoldt, managing director of Bunny, added, “Bunny Nature has built a loyal customer base and strong reputation in Germany and internationally, and we are pleased to be joining a business that shares our values around animal welfare and nutrition. Burgess brings both expertise and long-term commitment, and we are looking forward to continuing to grow the brand together.”

Transaction experts Mr Nikolaus Röver, Mr Simon Eickmann and Mr Julian Scharr have overseen the entire process, from structured investor outreach and due diligence through to supporting contract negotiations and closing the transaction.

“Following constructive discussions, we have achieved a solution for the Aalen site in a challenging market environment,” said Mr Nikolaus Röver, head of M&A Transactions at PLUTA.

Autolöwen GmbH filed for insolvency in late April 2026. The competent local court appointed attorney Dr Markus Schuster from law firm Schultze & Braun as provisional insolvency administrator.

Despite considerable efforts, no investor has been found for the other Autolöwen GmbH sites. Dr Schuster had no choice but to cease operations at the locations in Schwäbisch Hall, Öhringen, Ludwigsburg, Crailsheim and Heilbronn when the insolvency proceedings were opened on 1 July 2026.

Operations and jobs preserved

With the sale of the Aalen site, operations will continue in full and all 33 employees have been kept on. The transfer took place following approval from the creditors’ committee. The site will be integrated into the Widmann Group’s existing infrastructure, with its approximately 1,150 employees, 15 car dealerships and four sales offices across several German states.

“I am very pleased that we were able to reach an agreement with the Widmann Group so quickly through constructive discussions. The preservation of the business and the jobs is good news in these proceedings,” said insolvency administrator Dr Markus Schuster from the nationwide law firm Schultze & Braun.

For customers in Aalen, the dealership will continue to provide its usual services; at the same time, it will benefit from the group’s structures and efficiency going forward. “We are committed to offering an excellent service to the customers at our new location,” said managing director Ms Lisa Widmann.

Autolöwen GmbH was a regional dealer group based in Schwäbisch Hall with several locations in Baden-Württemberg. The company sold new and used vehicles of various makes and models and offered an extensive range of maintenance and repair services. It employed around 180 people and generated annual revenue in the mid tens of millions. Autolöwen GmbH had been operating in the automotive retail sector for over 30 years.

The creditors’ approval marks a major milestone in the company’s debtor-in-possession proceedings. Once the insolvency plan has been approved by the court and becomes final and binding in law, it will be possible to terminate the proceedings soon after that. This therefore secures the hospital’s future. The jobs of the more than 900 employees have been saved and the continued provision of high-quality medical care in the Frankfurt/Offenbach region is ensured.

PLUTA restructuring experts secure long-term prospects

The operator of the Ketteler hospital initiated debtor-in-possession restructuring proceedings in autumn 2025. The aim of this was to establish a durable financial foundation and secure long-term prospects for the site. Restructuring experts Mr Philip Konen and Dr Christian Kaufmann from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH have supported management since then in their capacity as general agents for the hospital. The PLUTA team also comprises attorneys Mr Philipp Meyer, Mr Sebastian Weyland and Mr Alexander Bortfeldt as well as Mr Sven Arnstadt, business management expert Mr Ludwig Stern and business lawyer Ms Celine Plaschke. Industry expert Mr Dietmar Eine (Hospital Management Group GmbH) is acting as chief restructuring officer.

Those in charge have kept the hospital operating since the insolvency application, ensuring that patients would continue to be treated and receive high-quality care at all times. The insolvency plan now provides for debt relief for the company and lays the groundwork for Deutsche Rote Kreuz Kreisverband Offenbach e.V., the German Red Cross (GRC) district association in Offenbach, to become the operator of the hospital. This transition will take place once the proceedings have been concluded. The Ketteler hospital will remain not-for-profit going forward.

“Viable and balanced solution for the hospital”

General agent Mr Philip Konen, a restructuring expert at PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH, said, “The approval from all of the creditor groups shows that we have devised a viable and balanced solution. This clears the way for the hospital’s continued operation on a sustainable basis.”

Within around four weeks of the insolvency plan becoming final and binding in law, an initial interim dividend of an expected approximately 8.7% will be distributed to the creditors. PLUTA attorney Dr Christian Kaufmann added, “This result has been enabled by the constructive and swift cooperation of all stakeholders. We would like to express our sincere thanks for this.”

Insolvency monitor Dr Lason Gutsche has also welcomed the outcome of the voting meeting: “The creditors’ unanimous approval has enabled a solution that has secured the hospital’s long-term future while ensuring the creditors’ claims are satisfied to the greatest extent possible.”

Kloster Kitchen is a strong brand and the perfect fit for our strategic vision. The combination of functional premium products with high brand recognition and our international strengths in production, sales and marketing provides the ideal foundation for further developing the brand and fostering international growth.

Mr Daniel Wüstner, managing director of Rauch

Kloster Kitchen: ginger shot pioneer
With Kloster Kitchen, Rauch has gained an established premium brand that has been considered a pioneer in the area of organic ginger shots since it was founded by Mr Mario Fürst in 2015. It has successfully positioned itself in the market with its high-quality organic ingredients, traditional monastery recipe and signature use of real pieces of ginger.

Further growth and site continuity secured
The Reichenschwand site and the company’s 29 jobs have therefore been saved. Issues had arisen after a period of strong growth, when the shareholders of the parent company, Curameo AG, failed to reach agreement on future financing. In the insolvency proceedings that followed, insolvency administrator Mr Patrick Meyerle from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH succeeded in delivering a sustainable long-term solution with Rauch. As a result, Kloster Kitchen can now build on its successful development to date under the umbrella of the Rauch Group. Founder Mr Mario Fürst will support the company in an advisory capacity during the integration phase.

Together, we have created a sustainable basis for the future of the company,
its employees and the Kloster Kitchen brand.

PLUTA attorney Mr Patrick Meyerle, in his capacity as insolvency administrator

Growth potential through additional functional value and the rise of healthy living
Alongside the strong brand positioning, the acquisition opens the door to new opportunities for Kloster Kitchen’s further development on an international scale. The combination of the brand’s well-established multichannel approach and the Rauch Group’s international sales strength provides the ideal foundation for tapping into new markets, target groups and sales channels. At the same time, the acquisition has strengthened Rauch’s innovation portfolio in the high-growth functional beverage segment.

The parties have agreed not to disclose any details concerning the purchase price. PLUTA partner Mr Steffen Beck said, “I am pleased that we have found a viable solution for Kothe Destillationstechnik GmbH. The expertise and brand will be maintained. The successful conclusion of the transaction is the result of constructive cooperation between all parties involved, for which I am very grateful.”

Continuation ensured basis for investor solution

Kothe Destillationstechnik GmbH develops and manufactures distillation equipment with a capacity of 50 to 5,000 litres. This is used to produce high-quality premium distillates for whisky, rum, gin and other spirits. In December 2025, the Local Court of Göppingen ordered provisional insolvency administration and appointed attorney Mr Steffen Beck from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH as provisional administrator.

On 2 March 2026, the court opened the regular proceedings and appointed Mr Steffen Beck as insolvency administrator for the manufacturer of distillation equipment. Since the company filed for insolvency, he has kept the business operating together with his team, which comprises attorney Dr Matthias Lehr and business lawyer Ms Sarah Dingler.

The team has fulfilled all orders as planned. Dr Matthias Lehr from the PLUTA restructuring team said, “The successful continuation of operations and the professional cooperation have been instrumental in the success of the investor process. There were several parties interested in acquiring the business.”

The process was supported by FalkenSteg as M&A advisor and has been concluded with the acquisition by Reiner Schmitt GmbH Brennereitechnik, a company specialising in process and plant engineering, which designs, engineers and delivers purpose-built distillation plants for aroma distillates and neutral alcohols. It has acquired Kothe Destillationstechnik GmbH in order to expand its in-house product portfolio.

Mr Beck has implemented the solution by way of an asset deal. As part of the investor solution, the company’s employee will be retained. The founder of the insolvent company will remain involved in the newly established business in an advisory role to ensure the company’s specific and highly specialised knowledge is preserved.

nadicom has special expertise in developing and producing microbiological solutions for the agricultural sector. The combination of in-house product development, genetic identification and quality control constitutes a specialised offering that is not widely available in the market.

“It is so important to preserve expertise in highly specialised companies. At the same time, our job is to find an economically viable solution that is in the interests of the creditors. We have achieved both with this transaction,” said PLUTA partner Mr Steffen Beck.

Insolvency proceedings opened on 1 April 2026

On 1 April 2026, the Local Court of Göppingen, as the competent court, ordered insolvency proceedings for the assets of nadicom and appointed attorney Mr Steffen Beck from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH as insolvency administrator. He had already been acting as provisional administrator for the company.

Mr Beck and his team had kept the business operating since it filed for insolvency in January 2026. The transaction represents an important step towards the sustainable continuation of the company. In addition to insolvency administrator Mr Steffen Beck, attorney Dr Matthias Lehr is also part of the PLUTA team.

F-TECH GmbH operates in the maintenance and industrial services sector. In particular, it carries out maintenance work on machines and test benches for customers. In addition to maintenance, repair and relocation of machinery, the company’s employees deliver expert advice and individually tailored solutions covering areas such as spare parts supply, automation and energy management. The business remains fully operational at this time and is continuing to fulfil ongoing customer orders.

The provisional insolvency administrator is currently conducting a comprehensive review of the company’s financial situation and examining options for securing its long-term operation. F-TECH GmbH’s economic difficulties are primarily attributable to a significant decline in workload due to short-term drops in demand and project postponements.

“The business is continuing to operate. In parallel to this, we are analysing its financial situation and working on developing a viable solution for the company,” said Mr Ivo-Meinert Willrodt. The provisional administrator will conduct the process of finding an investor over the coming weeks. Mr Willrodt added, “We have already held initial discussions with potential investors.”

Wages and salaries guaranteed

The company currently has 19 employees. Their wages and salaries are guaranteed for a period of three months thanks to specific substitute benefits provided under German insolvency law. “We are in the process of securing pre-financing of these with the Federal Employment Agency and are working hard to ensure their timely payment,” said attorney Mr Stefan Riegger. He is supporting the provisional insolvency administrator in the PLUTA restructuring team.

The next steps will depend on the outcome of the ongoing review and the discussions with all stakeholders. “This is not an easy situation, but we are making every effort with the provisional insolvency administrator to find a solution that will enable the continued operation of our business,” said managing directors Mr Christian Fuchs and Mr Harald Hell.

The insolvency plan is legally binding, having been unanimously approved by the creditors at the discussion and voting meeting held yesterday. The buyer is a company led by entrepreneur Mr Andre Richner. He has founded and built a number of companies, including Swiss-based Richnerstutz AG, a specialist in the implementation of advertising and communication activities.

MAAS+ROOS SIGNAGE GmbH is a leading supplier of high-quality signage and illuminated advertising systems. The company has been in business for over 100 years and has established itself as a premium manufacturer of professional signage solutions under the MAAS+ROOS name. It offers a broad product portfolio ranging from conventional and digital illuminated advertising systems through to fully customised brand presentations for chain stores and international corporations.

The company filed for debtor-in-possession insolvency proceedings in November 2025 due to a liquidity shortage and has continued to operate ever since. General agent Mr Michael Wirth from law firm Dr. Schmitt & Kollegen has been working with Mr Philip Zent and Mr Sebastian Zentgraf to support management during the proceedings. Mr Joachim Exner from law firm Dr. Beck & Partner has been overseeing the proceedings as insolvency monitor in the interests of the creditors.

PLUTA Management GmbH was exclusively mandated to conduct the M&A process for MAAS+ROOS SIGNAGE GmbH, and coordinated the process from the search for an investor to the closing of the transaction. The team was comprised of managing director Mr Marcus Katholing and project manager Mr Luca Reifenberg as well as Mr Aron Schuler and Mr Max Mayer.

Mr Marcus Katholing said, “We are pleased that around 140 employees will be kept on under the transaction. This means that almost all of the jobs have been saved. The company has a strong market position and has been working with well-known clients for many years. This provided a strong starting point and played an important role in the successful completion of the M&A process.”

The investor will maintain the MAAS+ROOS brand going forward, and the company will expand its cooperation with Richnerstutz AG, a Swiss-based leader in the implementation of indoor and outdoor advertising and communication activities.

Mr Andre Richner said, “We have worked with MAAS+ROOS SIGNAGE GmbH in a trusted partnership for many years and previously counted among the company’s clients. We see potential in the area of high-quality signage solutions and want to grow the market position.”

Mr Andre Richner has been supported in the transaction by Dr Kai Uwe Büchler from the Heuking law firm.

The buyer is Bildung und christliche Werte e.V. based in Schwäbisch Gmünd, which plans to construct a new building on the plot of land and run a secondary school there in the future. In doing so, the local association wants to strengthen educational provision in the region in a sustainable way.

PLUTA restructuring expert Mr Florian Zistler said, “Having completed the sale, we have successfully realised value from the property on commercially attractive terms. At the same time, the buyer’s intended use provides a sound basis for the long-term development of the site.”

The purchaser is also pleased with the acquisition: “We are delighted with the successful completion of the sale and that we have the opportunity to develop a new educational facility here. Our aim is to create a place for learning and the teaching of values that will be firmly anchored in the region,” said chief executive Dr Johannes Stoll. Expert Mr Randy Mc Corvey from S-Immobilien Ostalb GmbH supported the transaction as a broker.

Menrad, a long-established eyewear manufacturer based in Schwäbisch Gmünd, had to file for insolvency in March 2025. The Local Court of Aalen opened the insolvency proceedings for the assets of Ferdinand Menrad GmbH + Co. KG in late May 2025 and appointed Mr Florian Zistler from PLUTA as insolvency administrator. As no investor was willing to acquire the entire business, the administrator has already sold the trademark rights and the company’s international holdings.

In addition to specialist attorney Mr Florian Zistler, business lawyer Mr Dennis Stroh (LL.M.) is also on the PLUTA team.

The sale of the property marks another important step in the insolvency proceedings. The aim is to maximise the realisation of the assets and thereby achieve the best possible outcome for the creditors.

Located between the Odenwald mountain range and the Palatinate Forest, the three-star hotel boasts 64 rooms across three different categories. It also has a 50-square-metre conference room with capacity for up to 25 participants. The employees will receive specific substitute benefits provided under German insolvency law for three months, ensuring their wages and salaries are covered.

Provisional insolvency administrator Mr Florian Zistler said, “We are in the process of gaining an initial overview of the financial situation and are holding discussions with important business partners. The focus is on conducting a detailed analysis of the company’s financial position. We will then use the findings as a basis for reviewing the restructuring prospects. Our goal is to stabilise the hotel’s operations and find a sustainable way forward.”

Managing director Mr Sascha Frieß said, “We have already informed our employees. I hope we can find a solution together with the provisional insolvency administrator that will allow our hotel to continue operating.”

The provisional insolvency administrator is being supported in the PLUTA restructuring team by business lawyers Mr Dennis Stroh and Ms Sarah Hoffmann. Mr Florian Zistler has extensive experience in insolvency administration and restructuring processes for hotels. Just at the start of this year, he achieved a follow-up solution for the business operating the four-star Maxx Hotel in Aalen.

Taste Hotel Lampertheim GmbH has had to file for insolvency due to liquidity problems caused by a number of factors, including declining revenues and high running costs. DMR Legal advised the company during the insolvency filing process. The application for insolvency relates solely to the aforementioned company; other hotels in the Taste Hotel Group are not affected.

Improove is an international digital marketing agency with offices in Vienna and Madrid. Since its foundation in 2009, the agency has implemented search engine optimisation (SEO), search engine marketing (SEM) and growth strategies for customers in more than 60 countries.

Zimper GmbH has evolved from a traditional specialist publishing house for print media into a full-service B2B communications group that includes Österreichischer Kommunal-Verlag GmbH in Vienna with subsidiary Zimper Media GmbH in Berlin.

Comprehensive M&A advisory services

PLUTA supported the seller throughout the entire M&A transaction. Among other things, this involved preparing the data room, engaging with potential investors and providing advice during the due diligence process as well as conducting the negotiations with prospective buyers together with management and the shareholders.

The PLUTA Management GmbH team comprised partner Mr Ludwig Stern, project manager Mr Luca Reifenberg, business lawyer Ms Selina Senf and Mr Michael Kögl. Attorney Dr. iur. Christian Pindeus from Oberhammer Rechtsanwälte GmbH based in Vienna provided legal assistance. The buyer was advised by a team led by Mr Christoph Leitgeb from DSC Doralt Seist Csoklich Rechtsanwälte GmbH based in Vienna.

High-profile client base

Project manager Mr Luca Reifenberg said, “Despite the challenging transaction process, we have been able to successfully conclude the negotiations. There was interest from several strategic investors on account of the agency’s considerable SEO and AI expertise and its high-profile client base. The Zimper Group had the best overall package and ultimately prevailed in the bidding process.”

Improove will continue to operate as an independent brand. The team at the Vienna and Madrid offices remains unchanged. The affiliation with the Zimper Group will give the agency’s clients additional reach through established B2B media and events. Conversely, the media group’s existing customers will gain access to a broader range of digital marketing and performance optimisation services.

The acquisition is part of a long-term plan to strengthen digital expertise within Zimper GmbH. At a time when online visibility is increasingly determined by artificial intelligence (AI) and new search platforms, this is an important step.

For the past 15 years, Zimper GmbH has been building up an extensive B2B network of specialist media, conferences and platforms for sharing information. As a result, the company reaches more than 100,000 decision-makers in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. However, it has lacked a strong digital marketing offering to date.

Mr Michael Zimper, managing director of Zimper GmbH, said, “We have made a conscious decision to pursue this route rather than developing this know-how in-house – because Improove brings with it deep expertise, not empty buzzwords. The team is driven by data rather than hype. That is a good fit for us.” The decision to acquire Improove is therefore a strategic one: the agency specialises in generative engine optimisation. This involves making brands visible to ChatGPT, Claude, Google AI and other AI-supported search engines so that they recommend them as reliable sources.

He has already gained an initial overview of the situation of the company, which runs twelve adult day care centres in Berlin and Brandenburg. The company remains fully operational. The more than 90 employees are still employed and are continuing to care for those who rely on the facilities’ support services. Their wages and salaries are guaranteed for a period of three months thanks to specific substitute benefits provided under German insolvency law. The employees were informed about the current situation in several staff meetings and have committed to continuing their work with dedication despite the challenging circumstances.

Attorney Mr Frank Brachwitz said, “Our initial review has shown that we can keep the company fully operational even though provisional insolvency administration has been ordered. This means that all the older people using these services will continue to receive care. We are now focused on reviewing the restructuring prospects over the coming weeks and developing a sustainable way forward for the day care centres.” The provisional insolvency administrator is being supported in this by attorney Mr Nicolas Konkel and other experienced members of his team. Their aim is to safeguard the jobs and ensure long-term care and support for the clients.

Investor process for GfA

The provisional insolvency administrator will initiate an M&A process for this purpose within the next few days. GfA Tagesstätten GmbH offers attractive opportunities for investors: the company operates ten adult day care centres in Brandenburg and another two in Berlin. The care staff at these centres look after and support older people who require assistance and care during the day but still live in their own homes. If required, the staff collect the elderly service users from their homes in the morning and then drop them back again later.

GfA Tagesstätten GmbH, which is part of the Pflegewerk Group, is run from its headquarters in Wisbyer Straße in Berlin. Pflegewerk Berlin GmbH has already been under insolvency administration since October 2025. Attorney Mr Frank Brachwitz is also the insolvency administrator for these proceedings. He and his team have managed to keep the business operating over the past six months and more.

On 1 May 2026, the Local Court of Karlsruhe opened insolvency proceedings for the assets of RÜCKERT + MÜLLER GmbH and appointed Mr Ilkin Bananyarli from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH as regular administrator. The Stuttgart-based attorney had already been involved as provisional administrator since 16 March 2026. He had been working in the meantime with his PLUTA colleague Mr Niko Maier to keep the business operating and conduct the process of finding an investor, which has culminated in the agreement achieved with ROM Technik.

PLUTA attorney Mr Ilkin Bananyarli said, “The employees have continued to fulfil the orders and shown great commitment in recent weeks. We have concluded a purchase agreement with the investor that, among other things, ensures the transfer of all employees and the full retention of the site. We have therefore achieved the best possible outcome for all concerned.”

RÜCKERT + MÜLLER has been offering innovative electrical installation solutions since 1980. The company plans and designs comprehensive electrical engineering concepts covering energy, safety and security, and connected systems. Building services engineering expert ROM Technik employs more than 2,600 people across Germany.

The transaction was concluded on 1 May 2026. By taking on the employees and thereby gaining specialist expertise at the Neureut (Karlsruhe) site, ROM Technik is particularly supporting the continued expansion of its portfolio in energy supplies and in safety and security technology in the Karlsruhe region. It is also ensuring a viable future for the site and long-term stability for the employees, customers and partners. The points of contact remain the same and the transferred projects are continuing as usual.

The fraudsters are using PLUTA’s brand name, logo and business address as well as the name of a PLUTA attorney for this. The fraudulent emails are being sent to third parties from the domains pluta-ra.net, pluta-ra.de and pluta-recht.de. The perpetrators have put together a professional-looking PDF and are claiming to offer an attractive asset sale opportunity. These emails advertising the supposed sale are presumably being sent in bulk to SMEs and industrial companies. With this type of fraud, payment is typically requested upfront but the goods never materialise.

PLUTA wishes to point out that, as a rule, vehicles and other assets are realised in a structured and transparent sales process in insolvency and restructuring proceedings. There are no mass mailings, and no unsolicited offers are made. PLUTA already warned of similar frauds in late 2023 and early 2025. Once again, PLUTA has immediately filed a criminal complaint against unknown persons. The operator of the domains has also been requested to immediately suspend the accounts in question and to preserve the data for the police investigation.

“BTG Global Advisory combines international reach with relationships built over years. While the network’s global presence is important, what is crucial is the close collaboration among the individual partner firms and the direct exchange between experts,” said Mr Ivo-Meinert Willrodt from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH.

The specialist attorney for insolvency and restructuring law coordinates international activities at PLUTA and took part in the event in London. The two-day conference focused on international market trends, cross-border mandates and current challenges in restructuring and transformation projects. PLUTA has been a member of the network for many years.

At the conference, Mr Ivo-Meinert Willrodt and an expert from Insocube delivered a presentation on handling large amounts of data in insolvency proceedings. Using the Lilium case as an example, Mr Willrodt explained the challenges in securing, accessing and transferring petabytes of data stored across various cloud providers. The presentation also showed the importance of a structured approach to business-critical data for preserving enterprise value in complex proceedings.

Numerous specialist presentations

The agenda also included numerous other specialist presentations covering digital assets and cryptocurrencies, the use of artificial intelligence in restructuring and advisory processes, cross-border M&A transactions, safeguarding assets in complex cases of fraud and more.

Mr Brian Simpson (BTG) and Mr Ben Bathgate (WeirFoulds) highlighted the growing importance of digital assets in insolvency and investigation proceedings. Mr Andy Harper (BTG) and Mr Allan Nackan (GlassRatner) demonstrated in a practical way how AI-powered solutions are already transforming the analysis of financial data, preparation of reports and processing of documents.

Mr Harry Cohen (KTR Partners) illustrated the importance of international collaboration by presenting several cross-border M&A transactions where BTG Global Advisory played a direct role. The event also featured a case study by Mr James Pickering KC (Enterprise Chambers) on a long-standing fraud case before the UK Supreme Court. With over £185 million at stake, it was a vivid illustration of the importance of persistence and the right legal tools for asset recovery in complex fraud cases.

In addition, Ms Sonia Akhtar (BTG) presented BTG’s national key account management programme for the structured development of collaboration with law firms, private equity houses, debt funds and financing partners.

BTG Global Advisory is an international network of independent consultancies that specialise in restructuring, insolvency administration, transactions and financial advisory services. The member companies collaborate globally on cross-border mandates and pool their expertise in different jurisdictions.

AGM participants
BTG (UK and offshore)
GlassRatner (USA and Canada)
Rodgers Reidy (Australia, New Zealand, Tasmania and Asia)
PLUTA (Germany, Spain and Italy)
Zalis (France)
KTR Partners (USA and France)
TCP Partners (Latin America)
Integrated Capital Services (India)

Founder Mr Michael Pluta said, “We are pleased that Dr Jens-Sören Schröder and his team will bring their expertise to us and strengthen our presence in insolvency administration, debtor-in-possession management and pre-insolvency advisory services from Hamburg.”

Dr Jens-Sören Schröder has many years of insolvency administration and restructuring experience. He was previously partner at Johlke Niethammer, and courts in northern Germany have been appointing him insolvency administrator and monitor for the past 25 years and more. He also advises on turnaround matters and supports companies involved in debtor-in-possession proceedings and out-of-court restructuring processes. Among his most notable proceedings as insolvency administrator have been the insolvencies of the Ufa cinema chain, the Max Bahr DIY chain and the holding company of ship operator Rickmers.

Dr Birte Jensen and Mr Markus Lüdtke have also practised as insolvency administrators for more than 15 years and have long-standing experience in insolvency proceedings for companies of various sizes in different industries.

PLUTA attorney Mr Nicolas Konkel will also join the team under attorney Dr Schröder.

PLUTA partner Mr Christian Heim, who is responsible for PLUTA’s Hamburg-Landwehr office, and his team will continue to practise as usual at the insolvency courts in Schleswig-Holstein and Lower Saxony.

Expansion of restructuring advisory services

Together with Mr Bernd Richter and the PLUTA team, Dr Jens-Sören Schröder will expand the restructuring advisory services, especially for debtor-in-possession and protective shield proceedings, restructuring under the German Corporate Stabilisation and Restructuring Act (StaRUG) and pre-insolvency turnarounds.

At the same time, Hamburg will become the second office of PLUTA Management GmbH, which has been developing its advisory business from Munich since 2016. With locations in both northern and southern Germany, the management company will now be even better positioned to act for clients nationwide.

Attorney Mr Marc Selker has joined PLUTA with his team and is now co-managing PLUTA’s Osnabrück office alongside existing managing partner Mr Stefan Meyer. Staff there work closely with their colleagues in Münster and Bielefeld, as well as in other locations in the Westphalia/East Westphalia and Northwest regions.

After several years running his own medium-sized law firm, Mr Marc Selker decided to join PLUTA. The attorney specialising in insolvency law was not alone in taking this step – attorney Ms Alena Pecher, a business lawyer, and six other members of staff have also moved with him to PLUTA.

“PLUTA gives me and my team an exciting opportunity to further establish ourselves and grow within a dynamic market environment. PLUTA’s market position and presence all across Germany in the field of insolvency and restructuring are key factors in this. I am particularly looking forward to engaging with my new colleagues at the other PLUTA locations,” said Mr Marc Selker.

“We are further expanding our presence with Mr Marc Selker and his team. With him, we are gaining an insolvency administrator who has been appointed by various courts in the Westphalia and Northwest regions for many years. I am delighted that we now get to work together,” said PLUTA managing partner Mr Stefan Meyer.

After more than 25 years in medium-sized law firms, the experienced legal expert decided to make the move from BRRS to PLUTA. Prior to that, she had enjoyed many years of successful collaboration with the BRRS partners. In addition to Ms Jutta Rüdlin, attorneys Dr Katrin Schulte and Mr Götz Fuhrmann-Rüdlin have also joined PLUTA.

“This marks the beginning of a new chapter at PLUTA for me and my team. After many years in medium-sized law firms, I am looking forward to bringing my experience to bear in an interdisciplinary environment. I am particularly excited by the opportunity to actively support not only conventional proceedings but also debtor-in-possession restructuring processes,” said Ms Jutta Rüdlin.

The attorney is regularly appointed by the insolvency courts of North Hesse and Thuringia as an expert assessor, insolvency administrator and insolvency monitor. She is a member of the executive board of the Registered Association of Insolvency Administrators of Germany (VID) as well as a member of the corporate restructuring expert committee of the German Association of Management Consultancies (BDU) and of the Distressed Ladies – Women in Restructuring e.V. network. She has co-chaired VID’s business administration committee with PLUTA partner Mr Torsten Gutmann for several years.

Attorney Dr Katrin Schulte has been working in insolvency administration for almost 20 years. She specialises in advising on corporate insolvencies and litigating disputes. Attorney Mr Götz Fuhrmann-Rüdlin has been handling insolvency proceedings for individuals and legal entities for over 15 years.

“Ms Jutta Rüdlin and her team are the ideal addition to our firm. She combines legal expertise with business know-how and has a strong network in the industry. This is a great gain for our restructuring practice. We have known each other for many years. I am delighted that we will work together in the future,” said PLUTA partner Mr Torsten Gutmann.

Restructuring expert Mr Konen has been the manager of the Frankfurt, Aschaffenburg, Darmstadt and Wiesbaden branches since 2023. His activities are focused on restructuring and turning around companies in crisis and insolvency situations. He is regularly appointed insolvency administrator by all courts in the Rhine-Main region and also oversees debtor-in-possession proceedings as a general agent or CRO.

“We are well positioned in the region and will continue to build on this foundation. I welcome this additional responsibility,” said Mr Konen.

Mr Jakob Weyres-von Levetzow is a business management expert with over 20 years of experience in management consulting. He spent more than ten years at EY in Hamburg working on restructurings and several years as Director of EY Parthenon’s Strategy & Transactions service line. Most recently, the 48-year-old was with RSM Ebner Stolz Management Consultants, where he grew its Hamburg operations. Mr Jakob Weyres-von Levetzow has expertise in pre-insolvency management consulting and in debtor-in-possession restructuring proceedings for midsize companies and family businesses. He also specialises in cost-saving and efficiency initiatives, liquidity management and operational implementation of management strategies. His focal areas of industry expertise include the mechanical and plant engineering, automotive and manufacturing sectors. Mr Jakob Weyres-von Levetzow has been with PLUTA Management GmbH since July and is responsible for expanding its operations in Hamburg.

Dr Dominik Doll is a business management expert (Technology and Management) with many years of expertise in leading and restructuring midsize companies, especially in the mechanical engineering and automotive sectors. The 39-year-old worked for more than five years at Roland Berger as Senior Project Manager in the Corporate Performance, Organisational Transformation and Commercial Due Diligence divisions. He was also an Operating Partner at a private equity firm in Düsseldorf and is a founder of and shareholder in a specialist centre for psychotherapy in Munich. Prior to joining PLUTA, Dr Dominik Doll acquired a company out of insolvency, led it as managing partner and implemented restructuring measures before exiting the business almost a year later. He is currently undertaking advanced legal studies (LL.M. corp. restruc.) in Heidelberg, which will be completed by the end of this year. Dr Dominik Doll has been working at PLUTA’s Munich office since August. He will support companies with financial and personnel turnaround management and take charge of restructuring measures.

Mr Wolfram Fünder is an experienced real estate specialist and has been working for PLUTA at its Hamburg office since early July. The real estate economist is helping Mr Sascha Witt to further expand PLUTA’s property segment. Mr Wolfram Fünder has more than 25 years of experience in the industry and has been responsible for numerous complex commercial real estate projects. He worked for more than ten years as Director Asset Management at FREO Financial & Real Estate Operations GmbH. He also spent several years as a real estate asset manager at Allianz Real Estate Germany GmbH and Dresdner Bank AG. Most recently, he was Senior Asset Manager with RFR Management GmbH and Director Asset Management at pure development GmbH. His areas of expertise include asset and inventory management, tenant base analysis and rental management as well as the identification and implementation of restructuring and value enhancement measures and the provision of support for acquisition and sales processes. Mr Wolfram Fünder has acted for both owners and investors and will provide pre-insolvency advisory services to banks and capital providers at PLUTA. He will also manage real estate in insolvency scenarios.

In welcoming these new additions, PLUTA is expanding its real estate expertise for special situations and strengthening its restructuring business in Munich and for northern Germany from its Hamburg office. PLUTA Management GmbH is a steadily growing firm focused on the challenges facing SMEs and on current industry hotspots, including the automotive, real estate and health sectors. With its new employees, PLUTA has added established experts with a hands-on mentality who are committed to supporting companies in a responsible role.

Managing director Dr Maximilian Pluta said, “We are strengthening our team with experienced experts. Restructuring consulting is a growing business and we can further expand our offering in this area in a targeted manner with Mr Jakob Weyres-von Levetzow and Dr Dominik Doll. We also see great potential in the real estate segment and have brought Mr Wolfram Fünder on board as a specialist in this. Together with our offices in Hanover, Bremen and Hamburg, we are building our restructuring expertise in the northern German market. All of this means we are very well positioned for the future.”

The new address is: Kröpeliner Straße 64, 18055 Rostock.

The telephone and fax numbers remain the same. The branch manager is attorney Mr Michael Bohnhoff, who is delighted with the modern office in the heart of Rostock.

PLUTA celebrates 25 years in Munich

In addition to the relocation, the Munich branch is also celebrating its 25th anniversary. It has seen continuous developments since its official opening in spring 2000. Originally located in the outskirts of Munich, the team already moved to Barthstraße 16 back in 2002. Now it is set to relocate to modern office premises.

The Munich team has chalked up numerous successes over the years, including many restructurings of medium-sized businesses. Most recently, it succeeded in achieving an insolvency plan solution for the MARO housing cooperative. It is currently involved in a number of high-profile proceedings, including those of solar technology company Sono Motors, insurer FWU, management consultancy Achtzig20, communications agency Olando, fashion house Ted Baker and online retailer windeln.de SE.

The branch employees offer a full range of services, from insolvency administration and legal consulting through to restructuring. PLUTA Management GmbH under managing director Dr Maximilian Pluta has its headquarters in Munich, from where the PLUTA International Desk also coordinates international activities.

Mr Ivo-Meinert Willrodt, branch manager and managing partner, is looking confidently to the future. “The new premises will give us the opportunity to continue our growth trajectory in Munich and Bavaria. The new location also offers excellent amenities and can be very easily reached by our clients and business partners.”

Mr Perna has been appointed branch manager jointly with Mr Vittorio Cardano and will be responsible for the development of PLUTA’s business in the Italian market. The duo will also leverage synergies with PLUTA’s international network.

Managing partner Dr Maximilian Pluta said, “Our strategy at PLUTA is to strengthen our team with attorneys that can assist national and international companies. Mr Perna is the perfect addition thanks to his legal and language skills as well as his network in Italy. We are delighted to welcome him to PLUTA. He will contribute in an important way to the success of our clients.”

Mr Vittorio Cardano said, “PLUTA is growing in Italy – also thanks to the collaboration with Germany. With Mr Perna, we have an excellent colleague with international experience who will assist our clients in the corporate and restructuring sectors. We are looking forward to the collaboration.”

Mr Armando Perna said, “I am delighted to be joining the PLUTA team. The Italian branch office has an impressive growth plan that we will implement going forward. Restructuring and insolvency are not only a national matter anymore: an international approach is key to supporting our clients and to the development of their business in Italy and further afield. With its locations in Germany and Italy as well as its international network, PLUTA is excellently positioned to meet its targets.”

These fraudulent emails were sent to third parties via the domain pluta.berlin, which was registered on 26 February 2025 as far as is currently known. The fraudsters used PLUTA’s brand name, logo and business address for these.

Such emails tend to be sent en masse to SMEs and industrial companies, advertising a supposed advance sale of insolvency goods. With this type of fraud, payment is typically requested up front but the goods are never delivered.

PLUTA wishes to point out that its attorneys and insolvency administrators do not send mass mailings or advertise stock sales in insolvency proceedings.

This scam is not new. PLUTA already issued a warning about such emails in late 2023.

As is standard in these circumstances, PLUTA has filed a criminal complaint against unknown persons. In parallel to this, the operator of the domain was immediately instructed to suspend the account without delay and to save all stored data for the police investigation. The operator has already blocked the domain. Anyone affected should report these incidents to the police.

Branch manager Mr Patrick Meyerle said, “Relocating to our new premises gives us more space and means we can continue to expand. The central location, modern infrastructure and ease of access make the tower the ideal spot.”

The Business Tower in Ostendstrasse is a city landmark and offers a spectacular view as Nuremberg’s tallest building. Standing 135 metres high, the office tower is as much a part of the city’s skyline as Nuremberg Castle and the Telecommunications Tower.

PLUTA’s team in Nuremberg has worked on numerous proceedings to date and has achieved investor solutions for transformer specialist TRAMAG and for the sole proprietorship feiermeier, for example. The PLUTA team was recently involved in the debtor-in-possession proceedings for transport company Maibach Logistik, with the insolvency monitor being appointed from among their ranks. The insolvency proceedings for kitchen design firm Küchen Quelle are among the biggest in the region. Some 4,000 creditors have filed their claims for registration in the insolvency schedule and the team is continuing to review the registered claims and other options involving the assertion of legal rights.

The new address is: Berliner Strasse 3, 32052 Herford. The telephone and fax numbers remain the same. The branch manager is attorney Mr Frank Schorisch, who is delighted with the new premises in the heart of Herford.

His areas of expertise include overall financial and operational management, in specific the implementation of restructuring measures, drafting and reviewing of integrated business plans and restructuring concepts, as well as direct cashflow forecasts. The 34-year-old financial advisor also helps corporates to execute sell-side and buy-side M&A transactions, whereby he, among others, conducts Financial Due Diligence assessments and guides his clients through transaction processes. As managing director of the newly established PLUTA Digital, he is implementing the digitalisation strategy for PLUTA’s advisory services.

In addition to his nationwide activities, he also leads international projects and gained in-depth insights into the U.S. restructuring practice during a one-year secondment with network partner B. Riley Financial in Atlanta and New York.

Expansion and international project work

PLUTA’s Managing Director Dr Maximilian Pluta said, “Simon has been a very important part of our team for many years, taking on responsibility in our projects and within our organization. His promotion to Partner is a logical step to continue our successful path together and to strategically advance our restructuring and transaction advisory services.”

Simon commented, “I am very excited about this next phase of my path at PLUTA and the opportunity to continue to actively shape the company’s ongoing successful development. By fostering and expanding our national and international network, I aim to contribute to our future growth. Additionally, I am highly motivated to take on the responsibility of strategically developing our ever-growing team.”

Simon studied Business Administration in Bayreuth, Beijing and Hamburg, majoring in finance, accounting and controlling. He serves as member of the International Committee at ABI (American Bankruptcy Institute) and is part of the NextGen cohort 2023 of AmCham Germany (American Chamber of Commerce in Germany). The restructuring expert is also member of TMA (Turnaround Management Association, Atlanta) and lectures at IDLO (International Development Law Organization).

These fraudsters are contacting businesses by email to notify them of stock being sold at highly attractive prices in the context of insolvency proceedings. The insolvent companies and the products offered do not actually exist. The fraudsters secure payment up front and then never deliver the goods. The perpetrators take very deliberate steps in order to appear credible. For example, they may forge local court orders and add the logo of a fake law firm to their email signatures. Their websites and content also appear very professional.

In the past week, PLUTA has learned that fraudsters have copied the content of its website almost word for word to a fake website in order to give the impression that they are running a legitimate operation. PLUTA has filed a criminal complaint in response. A similar website had already been previously taken offline after PLUTA reported it to the relevant hosting company and the authorities.

Companies and individuals can suffer considerable financial damage as a result of such fraud. Anyone affected should report these incidents to the police. PLUTA wishes to point out that attorneys and insolvency administrators do not send unsolicited mass mailings or advertise stock sales in insolvency proceedings. When anything of this nature arises, it is important to investigate whether the law firm in question actually exists and engages in insolvency proceedings. One useful resource for this is the Official Nationwide Register of Lawyers compiled by the German Federal Bar (BRAK): https://bravsearch.bea-brak.de/bravsearch/index.brak

Attorney Mr Michael Pluta, managing partner at PLUTA, said, “The fraudsters are very clever in their approach and forge all of the documents. We immediately wanted to raise this issue publicly in order to alert businesses. We cannot allow criminals to profit from a supposed insolvency or abuse the integrity of our profession.”

Attorney Heinz-Joachim Hombach is jointly responsible for cybersecurity at PLUTA. He is also PLUTA's data protection coordinator and is responsible for the PLUTA’s internal IT infrastructure together with the IT department.