Wolfgang Grupp: Depression is gone - Trigema's founder opens up about life after stepping down and a suicide attempt
Wolfgang Grupp, the long-time head of German clothing brand Trigema, has spoken openly about his struggles after leaving the company. The 82-year-old attempted suicide earlier this year but now says he regrets the decision and is focusing on a quieter life.
Grupp took over Trigema in 1969, building it into a well-known brand for underwear, casual wear, and sportswear. The company has always marketed itself as 100 percent 'Made in Germany', a point of pride for its founder.
In January 2024, he stepped down as CEO, handing control to his daughter Bregitt and son. The transition left him feeling a deep sense of emptiness and loss of purpose. The weight of responsibility, which had defined his life for decades, suddenly lifted—and the change proved difficult.
His daughter maintained the company's focus on German production and sustainability while expanding online sales and partnerships in Europe and the USA by 2026. Meanwhile, Grupp struggled with depression, leading to a suicide attempt. Now, he reflects on that moment with regret and insists he would not repeat it.
Today, he spends his days working on his biography and visiting the office regularly. He also cherishes time with his wife, children, and grandchild, whom he sees daily. While he acknowledges that responsibility once felt like a burden, he now finds contentment in a slower pace.
Grupp's story highlights the challenges of stepping back after a lifetime of leadership. His family continues to guide Trigema, keeping its core values intact while gently expanding its reach. For Grupp, the focus now is on reflection, family, and moving forward.
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