Restructuring events
European Restructuring Monitor (ERM)
The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
Woolworth, a German discount retail chain, has announced that it plans to create 2,000 new jobs in Europe by the end of 2025.
The chain is expanding rapidly in Central Europe with new stores opening in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. In June 2025, the company entered the Czech market by launching its first store in Třebíč, followed by additional openings in other cities. By mid-2026, Woolworth plans to operate up to 20 stores across the Czech Republic and Slovakia, creating more than 300 new jobs Woolworth 2025-CZ . In October 2025, the retailer opened its first Slovak store in Bratislava. The company also plans to open up 30 branches in Austria.
Competing with chains such as Pepco, Action, TEDi, and KiK, Woolworth aims to attract customers with a broad assortment and low prices.
Founded in 1879 in the United States and active in Germany since 1926, Woolworth currently operates about 900 stores across Germany, Austria, and Poland, employing over 12,500 people. Its long-term goal is to expand to 5,000 stores throughout Europe.
Eurofound (2025), Woolworth , Business expansion in European Union, factsheet number 203528, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://dev.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/203528.
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