A notable shift in local retail provision is taking place in south-eastern Erfurt: the Melchendorfer Markt, colloquially known as Mellemarkt, is securing a new full-range food retailer. In summer 2027, EDEKA will take over the rental space currently operated by REWE. The shopping centre is owned by the Munich-based Jost Hurler Gruppe, which regards the upcoming change of tenant as a strategic step in the further development of the location.
REWE's departure brings to an end a partnership at the site spanning around 30 years. The vacated retail space is to be operated in future by legally independent EDEKA merchants. This cooperation model is familiar to Jost Hurler Gruppe, as the owner already works closely with independent EDEKA merchants at other locations in Bavaria and North Rhine-Westphalia.
Comprehensive refurbishment from summer 2027
In order to adapt the space to the contemporary store concept, extensive modernisation works are planned in parts. The start of the structural transformation is scheduled for summer 2027. At present, no reliable forecast can be given regarding the exact duration of the conversion work. The objective of the measures is to establish a modern food offering ranging from entry-level price points to branded goods, private labels and organic products.
Dr Maximilian Gutsche, Managing Director of Jost Hurler Gruppe, looks back with gratitude on three decades of collaboration with REWE. At the same time, he stresses that the switch to EDEKA opens up the opportunity to deliver an invigorating stimulus for the shopping centre, its customers and the wider neighbourhood. The company is accordingly looking forward to the planned refurbishment and realignment with great anticipation.
Significance for local amenities in south-eastern Erfurt
Since the end of the 1990s, the Melchendorfer Markt has served as a central hub for residents of the surrounding districts of Herrenberg, Melchendorf and Wiesenhügel. The property is characterised by mixed use, comprising a medical centre and integrated flats alongside the retail units. For EDEKA, the addition marks its seventh location in the city of Erfurt and sustainably reinforces the retail group's local presence in the south-east of the Thuringian state capital.
