In short supply in Kamenz: How is this popular business going?

In short supply in Kamenz: How is this popular business going?

In Kamenz, the question burns on the tongue: How is the shop on goods on Bautzner Strasse continue? Since 2018, this special place, operations of Louisensstift GmbH, has not only been a contact point for fashion enthusiasts, but also a social meeting point for those who need support due to mental challenges. But now it looks dark, because the project is facing that, even with loyal regular customers, conjures up worries on the forehead.

The city administration and the city's city management have ringed the alarm bells and are urgently looking for new entrepreneurs, interested and volunteers in order to continue the proven concept in the future. "Creative ideas are in demand," says the city management. Cooperation with local dealers and artists is stimulated in order not only to keep the existing customer base, but also to create new offers and to organize small events.

The challenge of closure

The closure threatens because the funding for the fashion business is set. In the past nine years, in short supply, prolonged goods, returns and overproductions have been praising trendy labels, which above all attracted young, environmentally conscious customers. This business model was successful and attracted not only Kamenzer, but also numerous customers from the area. The special role of the business as part of the Diakonisches Werk and as a project of Louisensift GmbH must also not be neglected. Here people with lengthy mental illnesses received job opportunities and thus participation - a concept that goes far beyond the mere sale of clothing.

The employees practiced various tasks, from repairing clothes to direct customer contact, which benefits not only themselves, but also to buyers. But without new financial support and creative ideas, the shop is faced with massive challenges.

an important part of urban development

The impending failure of the in short supply is not just an individual fate. Rather, it reflects the general changes in urban development, which can also be observed in the discourse on socially sustainable developments in urban spaces. As research on urban change or the “Social City” program shows, the preservation of social meeting points such as in short supply can help strengthen social cohesion. Quarters and neighborhoods can develop enormous social potential if you get the necessary attention.

In this context, it is particularly important to promote local shopping culture. City management and the city are committed to the preservation of such places in order not only to preserve the infrastructure, but also to strengthen the sense of community: inside. Anyone who now relies on creative ideas and active support could not only save the shop, but also make a valuable contribution to social and sustainable urban development that is more in demand than ever.