The “K in Lautern” shopping center is undergoing a significant transformation, starting with the successful leasing of approximately 6,000 sq m of retail space to three new fashion tenants: Lager 157, Kult, and Only. Contracts have already been signed, and the shops are set to open in phases from late 2025 through fall 2026.
The newly leased space—previously occupied by a single tenant – spans three floors and is now fully re-let. Renovation work for the new stores will begin as early as July 2025.
Simultaneously, the shopping center’s owner, DWS, is investing around €10 million into an extensive refurbishment of the surrounding retail areas, including the main mall corridors and the central rotunda. These updates are designed to modernize and visually enhance the space, aligning it with current customer expectations and urban development trends.
The re-lettings and renovations form the foundation of a new master plan to reposition the K in Lautern as a more versatile and attractive urban destination. The full transformation is scheduled for completion by 2027. Future additions, aimed at expanding the center’s offerings beyond traditional retail, are already in development in coordination with the City of Kaiserslautern and are expected to be unveiled in early 2026.
“The strong commitment from well-known retail brands is a clear vote of confidence in our new concept,” said Steffen Eric Friedlein, Head of Anchor Tenants & Leasing Projects at ECE Marketplaces, which operates and leases the center and is leading the redevelopment. “This is a key milestone for the center’s future and its evolution into a more diverse, customer-focused destination.”
Sabine Friedrich, Center Manager of K in Lautern, emphasized the broader vision: “We want to open the center up further – to make it more attractive not only for shoppers but for all types of visitors. This includes new offerings and experiences that go beyond retail. Given the central location, this project plays an important role in the ongoing development of Kaiserslautern’s ‘New City Center.’”
The incoming tenants reflect the center’s new direction:
- Lager 157, a Swedish fashion retailer known for affordable basics for women, men, and children, enters the German market with this expansion.
- Kult offers young fashion across various trendy brands under one roof.
- Only, the Danish fashion brand, is relocating within the mall to a larger space, underscoring its continued commitment to the location.
With this strategic relaunch, K in Lautern aims to become a modern, multifaceted anchor in the heart of Kaiserslautern.
