The Jerónimo Martins Group will permanently close all Hussel stores in Portugal, ending a decades-long presence in the country’s specialized chocolate and confectionery retail sector. The brand’s 18 stores will gradually shut down, with the process expected to conclude by April 30, 2026.
The decision follows a thorough review of the brand’s sustainability. Structural challenges, including supply constraints after the insolvency of Hussel GmbH in 2024, rising fixed costs, and the impact of fluctuating cocoa prices, made a medium-term recovery unrealistic.
Around 60 employees currently work at Hussel in Portugal, most with permanent contracts. Jerónimo Martins assures that all staff will be reassigned within other group companies, maintaining job security.
The closure reflects Hussel’s difficulties in an increasingly challenging retail environment, contrasting with the broader Jerónimo Martins Group, which reported €33.4 billion in sales and €599 million in profits in 2024.
Customers still have the opportunity to make their last purchases before the brand disappears from the Portuguese market.
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