Successful restructuring of renowned Stuttgart restaurant ‘5’ under insolvency plan, with PLUTA restructuring expert Steffen Beck as insolvency monitor

The debtor-in-possession proceedings for ZEDO GmbH, the operator of the ‘5’ gourmet bar and restaurant in Stuttgart, have been successfully concluded. Within the framework of an insolvency plan, those in charge have implemented an investor solution that will allow the business to make a sustainable fresh start. With the court having already confirmed the plan, the developed solution has since become legally binding and the proceedings can soon be formally terminated. The creditors approved the plan back in early April. Mr Steffen Beck from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH has been overseeing the proceedings and representing the interests of the creditors as insolvency monitor.

The restaurant has been an established name in the region’s fine dining sector for years and enjoys an excellent reputation. Despite the economic challenges, the business has continued operating on a stable basis during the entire proceedings.

Best possible outcome in the interests of the creditors

Insolvency monitor Mr Steffen Beck has been overseeing the proceedings and monitoring the implementation of the restructuring measures. He said, “The aim of the proceedings was to develop a solution that would ensure the restaurant’s continued existence and serve the creditors’ interests. That has been achieved here. With the insolvency plan as part of the investor solution, a financially viable concept that considers the interests of the creditors has been implemented.”

A suitable partner to acquire and further develop the business within the framework of the insolvency plan was found as part of the structured process to secure an investor. This ensures the preservation of an important dining establishment and provides the basis for its successful future in the upscale segment. Moreover, all jobs have been saved.

“The solution found shows that a sustainable restructuring can still be achieved in a demanding market environment if all involved collaborate effectively,” added attorney Mr Sven Heuser, who is working alongside Mr Beck in the PLUTA restructuring team. The insolvency plan was drawn up by restructuring consultants Mr Dirk Eichelbaum and Mr Alexander Ehrhardt of dhmp Restrukturierung.

Application filed in summer 2025

Management at the operating company filed for the opening of debtor-in-possession proceedings with the Local Court of Aalen, as the competent court, in mid-July 2025. The court opened the proceedings in autumn 2025 and appointed Mr Steffen Beck as insolvency monitor.

The conclusion of the proceedings has paved the way for the restaurant’s continuation under new circumstances. The aim is to maintain its high quality and established concept while also putting the business on a sustainable economic footing.