Estonian E-Bike Maker Ampler Bikes Files for Bankruptcy Over Berlin Lease Dispute

Estonian electric bicycle manufacturer Ampler Bikes OÜ has filed for bankruptcy with the Harju District Court, a move driven primarily by an unresolved legal dispute concerning a long-term lease for its Berlin showroom. The company’s management deems bankruptcy inevitable following the insolvency of its German subsidiary, with its Swiss unit expected to follow suit. According to board member Kristjan Maruste, the core issue was a restrictive 10-year lease signed in 2021 that the company could not exit without paying a prohibitive €1.2 million penalty demanded by the landlord. After 18 months of failed renegotiation attempts, this financial burden prevented new investment, prompting major shareholder Urban Mobility to cease funding. Consequently, all 50 employees will be laid off. Despite the collapse, the company assures customers that maintenance remains feasible through standard bicycle shops due to the use of common components. The management board intends to propose selling the company’s assets as a whole to a potential partner who might continue operating the Ampler brand.