Since late 2024, Helgoland has lacked fresh bread after its last bakery closed due to the operator's health issues. Local entrepreneur Adrian Wolf and baker Mario Peterscheck aim to revive it through a cooperative raising 1.35 million euros. The plan has sparked strong local support.
Helgoland, Germany's only North Sea island, is striving to bring back fresh baked goods. The closure of its last bakery at the end of 2024 has left its roughly 1,300 residents reliant on frozen items and canned food. Adrian Wolf, a local entrepreneur and co-initiator of inselgenossenschaft.de, describes the impact: "A big piece of quality of life has been lost, and it's a huge topic on the island—for residents and tourists alike."
The bakery, operating in its original form since the 1960s, shut down due to the operator's insolvency from health reasons. Despite a viable business model, experienced baker Mario Peterscheck's (52) takeover bid failed when the mainland bank withdrew funding a week before the notary appointment, citing his age as too risky. The community secured a right of first refusal on the property, set to expire by year's end—a tight deadline, as space for a new production hall is scarce on the cramped island.
The solution: A cooperative bakery featuring a modern production facility, patisserie, and canteen for harbor workers. The business plan requires 1.35 million euros, with shares starting at 150 euros to encourage wide participation. The cooperative's founding is planned in days. Response has been enthusiastic: "It's the number one village topic," Wolf says. An information event for seniors ended in standing ovations. In eleven days, intent declarations reached 400,000 euros from tourists and island affiliates. Further backing is anticipated from shipping companies, cooperative grants, and bank loans.
Islanders miss staples like butter cake, rolls, and black bread. Wolf notes: "We want to connect to that past, but Mario should also make his own products." Without swift action, the bakery could be lost forever.