Vacant storefronts remain one of the biggest challenges facing city centers across Europe. Yet many restaurants, cafés, and bakeries are not closing because demand has disappeared. Instead, owners often struggle to find successors willing to take over established businesses.
Germany-based companies Cuisyn and Haus der Bäcker are tackling this issue with an unusual growth strategy. Rather than focusing on new locations or traditional franchise expansion, both companies acquire successful owner-operated businesses that lack succession plans, helping to prevent closures before they occur.
From succession challenge to growth strategy
The concept is simple but potentially far-reaching. Instead of replacing existing businesses, the companies preserve functioning local structures—including loyal customer bases, experienced teams, established locations, and strong regional identities. This allows businesses to continue operating while maintaining much of the character that made them successful in the first place.
Cuisyn specializes in acquiring and developing independent hospitality concepts. According to the company, its goal is not only to preserve restaurants and their histories but also to strengthen regional gastronomy through modern management and operational expertise. Haus der Bäcker applies a similar strategy to the bakery sector, where succession challenges have become increasingly common. Since its launch in 2019, the company has grown to encompass six operating bakery businesses, around 240 stores, and approximately 2,400 employees.
Both companies are part of the Blueworld Group, founded by entrepreneur and investor Rigbert Fischer. Following the sale of his previous business, Fischer established the group to invest in sustainable and responsible business models.
By combining succession solutions with professional management, local job retention, and urban revitalization, the model offers a different perspective on growth. At a time when many cities are searching for ways to combat vacancy and preserve local identity, the acquisition and continuation of successful food and beverage businesses may prove to be an increasingly relevant strategy.
