End of an era: The only shop in Misery closes forever!

End of an era: The only shop in Misery closes forever!

The tranquil community of Elend in the Harz Mountains is facing a turning point: the only shop that served as a point of contact for residents and vacationers will close on October 31, 2025. Operator Christine Drieman, who came to Germany from the Netherlands over two decades ago, is retiring, bringing an almost 70-year era to an end. The shop, called “3 Harzer Hexen”, was not only known for its diverse range, which included fresh rolls, sausages, hiking maps, newspapers and food, but also as a meeting place for the village community and travelers.

Christine Drieman decided to start her own business in Elend in 2004 after having difficulty finding employment. She previously ran another store in Rübeland, which was later closed. She spent the last time looking for a successor, unfortunately without success. Health reasons have now forced them to withdraw and the future supply of the villagers remains unclear as there is only one container with shopping machines available. “It's sad that there's no brick-and-mortar store here anymore,” Drieman said, and many residents share her concerns.

The future of misery

What does the closure of the store mean for misery? For the last few years, the “3 Harz Witches” has been an integral part of daily life. With the closure, Elend could face new challenges that need to be overcome in the coming months. "The end of a store is not just the end of a store. It's the end of a social meeting place," says one resident. The prospect of opening a new store remains open, but there has been little movement on this so far.

Misery has experienced a lot since Drieman's arrival. In her experience, it can be challenging for entrepreneurs to gain a foothold in smaller communities. This often means that potential successors are not easy to find in the neighborhood. “A good knack for selecting new concepts could be crucial in preserving the village community,” says Drieman, optimistic about future possibilities.

The importance of local shops

Christine Drieman's withdrawal is not only noticeable locally. In general, small businesses like your store often create a lively townscape and contribute to the identity of a community. Big city flair has its advantages, but many people appreciate the personal touch that they can find in a small, family-run shop. Competitiveness is an important point that not only Misery, but also other rural areas should take into account.

Apart from the economic aspects, social exchange between people is also of great importance. According to the experiences of other entrepreneurs, maintaining such businesses is crucial to community growth. “We have to think about how we can preserve these meeting places,” says Drieman, expressing a concern that many poor people share.

What remains is to consider how the future for misery can be shaped without this central point. New ideas, perhaps also with a view to aligning local needs, could play an important role in the coming years. The closure of such a valued store is more than just a loss; it represents a challenge that requires new creative solutions.

Where does misery lead? That remains to be seen. One thing is certain: there is a lot of work to be done here to continue to preserve the charm and community identity that has grown in such places.