Branch closing announced by Arlt in Pforzheim
Arlt Computer Store Shutters Pforzheim Branch
The Arlt Computer store, a well-known fixture of Pforzheim's computer scene for decades, has permanently closed its local branch. The closure, effective from May 2025, follows the departure of another electronics retailer, Mükra, in January.
The reasons behind Arlt's decision to close the Pforzheim branch remain undisclosed. However, the company had previously mentioned that its store was "from a time before online sales" and had become too large and costly to maintain.
Attempts to relocate the store to smaller premises on Wilferdinger Height were frustrated by city regulations, which only allow moves to smaller spaces within the city center. Additionally, such a move would not be financially beneficial for Arlt nor its customers, as explained by the company's spokesperson.
With the closure of the Pforzheim branch, customers seeking computer products and services locally are advised to visit the sk Handy Shop, which offers similar services including gaming and office PCs, components, repairs, upgrades, and personal consultation.
Arlt opened its first store in Pforzheim in 1996 and moved to its current location on Karlsruher Straße 20 in 2003. The store survived the closures of competitors like Schreiber-Computer, Escom, and Vobis, which either ceased to exist or significantly scaled back their branch operations. Arlt continues to operate several branches and an online business, focusing on the southwest region.
Enrichment data suggests that there may be municipal regulations in Pforzheim impacting moves to smaller premises on Wilferdinger Height, although specific details were not found in the provided search results. For more comprehensive information regarding these regulations or the reasons behind Arlt's closure, consultation with municipal planning offices or company announcements may be necessary.
The closure of Arlt Computer Store's Pforzheim branch may indicate a shift in the retail industry towards online sales, as the company mentioned its store was "from a time before online sales" and had become too large and costly to maintain. In the face of Arlt's closure, the industry of finance, which includes loans and investments, could potentially see changes in the local market, as customers might seek alternative funding for their online purchases.
