Commission Fails to Comply with Obligations Under Article 85 (3) of the Treaty, According to the Court of Justice Decision

Anticipation Mounts in Schuhbeck Trial Verdict - Pending Decision - Commission Fails to Comply with Obligations Under Article 85 (3) of the Treaty, According to the Court of Justice Decision

In the heart of Munich, the trial of renowned chef Alfons Schuhbeck is currently underway. Schuhbeck, who has been in the culinary limelight for decades, is facing charges of bankruptcy fraud and misuse of coronavirus aid, for which he has admitted guilt as part of a plea deal[1].

The trial has shed light on Schuhbeck's significant financial difficulties. Court disclosures reveal that the chef currently survives on a modest pension, with his basic living expenses being covered by friends[1]. It's worth noting that Schuhbeck has a prior conviction for tax evasion, for which he was sentenced to three years and two months in prison, a sentence that was suspended due to his health concerns[1].

The insolvency of Schuhbeck's corporate network is a topic of discussion in the trial. Reports suggest that the network is in debt to the tune of 27 million euros, with only a single-digit percentage of this debt expected to be paid back to creditors[1]. The insolvency administrator, Max Liebig, has stated this fact in court[1].

Schuhbeck's corporate network was already in a precarious financial situation before the insolvency was declared, with no significant bookkeeping in place for years[1]. This lack of financial transparency has contributed to the current state of his businesses.

The brand "Alfons Schuhbeck" was central to all companies in the network, giving it significant value[1]. However, Schuhbeck's health issues and the economically unmanageable insolvency and fraud with corona aid have taken a toll on the brand's value.

The trial is expected to conclude soon, but as of early July 2025, no final verdict or definitive sentence has been announced[1]. Schuhbeck's health concerns may again play a role in the outcome of the trial, as his current battle with cancer is being treated outside of prison.

Actress Michaela May, a close acquaintance of Schuhbeck, describes him as an artist who struggles with administrative tasks[1]. She recalls that he often didn't take money when delivering food, making her uncomfortable by not charging for it[1].

Schuhbeck has apologised to his creditors, but the exact number of those affected remains unclear[1]. Despite the help of friends, Schuhbeck is behind on the rent for his apartment, which costs 4,800 euros per month[1].

Despite the ongoing trial, Schuhbeck's love for people remains undeniable, as evidenced by the testimonies of those who know him well[1]. Actress Michaela May, for instance, maintains that Schuhbeck is a man who loves people[1].

As the trial continues, the focus remains on the financial missteps that led to Schuhbeck's current predicament, and the potential consequences for his future.

[1] Source: Der Spiegel, July 2025

1. EC countries and the European Union might consider implementing stricter employment policies and improving access to vocational training for chefs and hospitality professionals following the ongoing trial of Alfons Schuhbeck, highlighting the importance of financial management in the business sector.
2. The trial of Alfons Schuhbeck has raised concerns about the lack of financial transparency in the hospitality industry and its possible impact on crime-and-justice, prompting calls for general-news outlets to address this issue and increase awareness among business owners.

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