Suche
Mein Konto
Villacher Lokal Hauptplatz 17 is closed: future uncertain
The restaurant “Hauptplatz 17” in downtown Villach has finally closed today. Financial difficulties and low guest numbers led to the closure. You can read more about the future of gastronomy here.
Villacher Lokal Hauptplatz 17 is closed: future uncertain
It was officially announced today in downtown Villach that the restaurant “Hauptplatz 17” has closed its doors forever. The end came as a surprise to many, as information about financial difficulties had been circulating for a long time. Alban Hoxhaj, the restaurant's owner, explained that the constant absence of guests ultimately led to this difficult decision.
"We simply didn't have enough guests. There was no frequency," continued Hoxhaj. Despite the central location on the main square, it was not possible for “hauptplatz17gmbh” to cover the running costs. Bankruptcy proceedings are now being considered and may soon be officially initiated. However, the Credit Protection Association currently does not have any information about such a procedure.
Last hope for renovation
The future of the restaurant remains uncertain. Hoxhaj has announced that he will take time to examine the situation and possible options. A restructuring process could be considered if the general conditions are right. The restaurateur is open to whether and how the restaurant could possibly be reopened with a new strategy.
The question arises as to how high the debt actually is and whether it is possible to save the restaurant under a new concept. “We will go through the options,” said Hoxhaj. The restaurant opened over a year and a half ago to counteract the vacancy on the main square and bring new life into the city.
Financial difficulties in the catering industry
The closure of “Hauptplatz 17” is not the only setback for the restaurant industry in the region. On the same day it was announced that the “Gegentalerhof” in Treffen near Villach had also filed for bankruptcy. The owner Julian Kramer struggled with debts amounting to 665,000 euros, which ultimately led to the closure on October 13, 2024.
The challenges in the catering industry are increasing and it remains to be hoped that appropriate measures can be taken to support the industry and perhaps also open up new perspectives. Details on the background and further developments are still unclear and will continue to be monitored by the affected companies and the responsible associations.
For a detailed look at the case, see the report on www.5min.at.