After exploring the more unexpected headlines of 2025, we now turn to stories that shaped the industry at a structural level. Corporate expansion, financial challenges, trend-setting announcements and record-breaking real estate all played a defining role in the year's narrative.
Here are numbers 7, 6, 5 and 4 in our countdown of the Top 10 Most Read Articles of 2025.
7. XXXLutz acquires 140 stores in Germany, the Czech Republic and Slovakia
© Mihai Neacsu | Dreamstime
XXXLutz made headlines with its acquisition of 140 stores across Germany, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, marking one of the largest retail moves of the year. The deal significantly strengthened the group's footprint in Central Europe and reinforced its position as a dominant player in the furniture retail landscape.
Readers were keen to understand the strategic motivations behind the acquisition, as well as its potential impact on employees, suppliers and competitors. The article reflects a broader trend of consolidation within the sector, as large groups seek scale and resilience in an increasingly competitive market.
6. German sanding giant files for insolvency after a century, 800 employees to be affected
© Sergii Gnatiuk | Dreamstime
The insolvency of a German sanding company after more than 100 years in business struck a chord across the industry. Affecting approximately 800 employees, the case highlighted the vulnerability of even long-established manufacturers in today's challenging economic environment.
The article resonated strongly with readers as it illustrated rising production costs, changing demand and the pressure faced by traditional industrial players. It also sparked discussion around the future of European manufacturing and the social consequences of industrial decline.
5. Pantone has announced the Colour of the Year 2026
© Pantone
Pantone's announcement of the Colour of the Year 2026 once again proved its influence across design, interiors, fashion and branding. The reveal offered insight into emerging cultural moods and aesthetic directions expected to shape the coming years.
High readership confirms the industry's continued fascination with colour forecasting and its practical implications for product development and marketing strategies. For many professionals, Pantone's annual announcement remains a key reference point when planning future collections.
4. Germany's most expensive villa goes on sale for 79 million euros
Luxury took centre stage with the listing of Germany's most expensive villa, priced at 79 million euros. The property's scale, location and architectural features captivated readers and offered a glimpse into the very top end of the real estate market.
The article's popularity reflects ongoing interest in luxury living as both inspiration and indicator of broader economic confidence. It also highlights how high-end real estate continues to intersect with design, interiors and lifestyle aspirations.
Together, these four stories underline how dynamic, and at times fragile, the design and interior industry was in 2025. From bold expansion strategies and financial setbacks to trend forecasting and luxury ambition, they paint a picture of a sector navigating change on multiple fronts.
But the most-read stories of the year are still to come. On December 24, we reveal the Top 3 Most Read Articles of 2025, featuring corporate rescues, high-profile failures and defining industry moments.
