PLUTA attorney Dr Ria Brüninghoff seeks investor for tool manufacturer WIPA

WIPA Werkzeug- und Maschinenbau GmbH based in Stadtlohn is involved in provisional insolvency proceedings. On 1 October 2025, the Local Court of Münster ordered provisional administration and appointed attorney Dr Ria Brüninghoff from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH as provisional insolvency administrator.

The attorney is reviewing all restructuring options and conducting the process of finding an investor. Her team will hold discussions with interested parties. The long-standing mechanical engineering business employs around 70 people and builds recycling systems for plastics processing. The provisional administrator already informed staff about the current situation at an employee meeting held on 2 October. The wages and salaries of the employees are guaranteed thanks to specific substitute benefits provided under German insolvency law. Manufacturing is continuing as usual.

Dr Ria Brüninghoff from PLUTA said, “We are working closely with management to stabilise business operations. Our goal is to preserve the company and find a solution for it in the near term.” Attorney Mr Leon Linz and business lawyer Mr Tim Austmeyer are also part of the PLUTA restructuring team.

Attorney Mr Oliver Ruhe-Schweigel from law firm ks rechtsanwälte + notare gbr, Essen, is acting as legal adviser to WIPA.

Manufacturer of recycling systems needs investor

Mechanical engineering firms in Germany are facing considerable pressure at this time, and the industry is suffering from a slowdown in orders. WIPA has had to file for insolvency due to the weak industry environment, declining sales and increased costs. New equipment business has been lower than expected, while high inventory levels have tied up liquidity.

Managing director Mr Johannes Wissing said, “The situation is undoubtedly challenging. We have to adjust costs, and we need an investor that will get the company back on track again. We hope we can keep our long-standing business running well into the future.”

WIPA Werkzeug- und Maschinenbau GmbH was founded in 1994 and specialises in developing and building recycling systems and machinery. The company considers itself a global partner in the recycling industry. Its systems can be used to recover valuable materials from production waste and return reusable materials to the manufacturing process. WIPA focuses on developing resource-efficient machines that are specifically designed for cleaning and drying plastics.