Press wholesalers fight back as restructuring threatens their independence
The Association of Press Wholesalers is facing major changes as the Fit for Future (FFF) publishing alliance pushes ahead with restructuring plans. Nine regional wholesalers will be reduced to logistics providers, putting their independence at risk. The association has criticised the move and is preparing legal action against the decision.
The restructuring stems from the FFF's plan to create a central wholesaler, the Presse-Grosso-Allianz. This new system will replace 13 regional wholesalers, leaving only four 'system partners' in place. The remaining nine will lose their independent status and become logistics providers, raising concerns about their future.
Board members Mauch and Mietke have spoken out against the changes, claiming the FFF is 'deliberately and systematically dismantling an independent economic sector'. Their criticism follows the departure of two key figures: Robert Herpold left the executive board in January 2026, and André Matysik stepped down in early February due to disagreements over the association's direction.
The Association of Press Wholesalers has announced plans to challenge the Federal Cartel Office's approval of the restructuring. Legal action is expected as the group fights to protect its members' roles in the industry.
The restructuring will cut the number of independent wholesalers from 13 to four, with nine demoted to logistics-only roles. The association's legal challenge could delay or reshape the FFF's plans. The outcome will determine whether the remaining wholesalers can maintain their current business model.
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