Shock for Munich’s Cult Music Store: Hieber Lindberg Files for Insolvency
Munich, May 1, 2026 – The renowned Munich music store Hieber Lindberg has filed for insolvency, a development that has sent shockwaves through the city’s cultural landscape. The management submitted a petition to the district court for the opening of insolvency proceedings, as announced in a press release on Thursday, April 30. Max Liebig from the law firm of the same name has been appointed as the preliminary insolvency administrator.
For generations, Hieber Lindberg on Sonnenstraße has been the go-to destination for all things music in Munich. From guitars and drums to wind, string, and keyboard instruments, synthesizers, DJ equipment, and sheet music – everything was available for customers to try out in the heart of the city, near Stachus.
Hieber Lindberg is Insolvent – A Blow to a Munich Institution
The news comes after a period of hope six months ago when the business relocated to a smaller premises due to high rent. The move, celebrated with a procession of drums and trumpets, was seen as a positive step for the company. Helmuth Klein of Lindberg had expressed relief and happiness at the time, comparing the new, more affordable lease to “hitting the jackpot.”
However, the reduction in retail space ultimately proved insufficient to save the business. According to the preliminary insolvency administrator’s statement, “As with many stationary retail businesses, high rental costs have impacted Hieber Lindberg’s operating results. Furthermore, many people continue to shop online even after the pandemic, which still affects customer traffic in city centers and, consequently, long-established retailers.”
Search for an Investor to Save the Store
Max Liebig and his team are now assessing the traditional store’s financial situation. Their goal is to rescue Hieber Lindberg. “Our aim is to find an investor for this musical institution in Munich. A business like this, with its over 100-year history, is a beacon for a vibrant city center,” Liebig stated.
Despite the insolvency proceedings, the store at Sonnenstraße 19 will remain open. However, it was closed on April 30 for inventory. All 44 employees will continue to receive their salaries until the end of June 2026 through insolvency pre-financing, and they will continue to advise customers with their renowned personal expertise.
A Rich History Since 1884
Corina Loib, managing director and co-partner of Hieber Lindberg, emphasized the store’s unique offering: “As a full-range music store, we offer musicians and music lovers the unique opportunity to try out and compare instruments directly. Our employees use their expertise to advise customers based on their individual requirements and wishes.”
Hieber Lindberg was formed from the merger of the music stores Hieber am Dom and Ernst Lindberg. The history of this specialty retail company dates back to 1884 and has since been woven into the history of Munich’s music trade.
