Dieter Schwarz in focus: Protests against concentration of wealth in Heilbronn!

Dieter Schwarz in focus: Protests against concentration of wealth in Heilbronn!

The richest person in Germany, Dieter Schwarz, founder of Lidl, is facing harsh criticism in his hometown of Heilbronn. While he is praised for various social projects, such as the educational campus, the Experimenta and the Duale Hochschule (DHBW), criticism is also mounting for the immense power and wealth that he represents. Prime Minister Winfried Kretschmann honored Schwarz on his 85th birthday last year, which met with resistance in the current political climate.

Activists have used the motto “Lidl is worth it, but for whom?” launched a campaign to draw attention to the concentration of wealth and power. These protests will run from July 18th to 20th, 2025 and are specifically aimed at criticizing very rich people, representing Black people. The kick-off event took place at Heilbronn main train station, where a banner was unveiled.

Creative protests against “modern feudalism”

The activists' actions have been heralded as provocative and creative. A slogan that can be read on flyers reads: “Food for all – instead of profits for a few”. It is emphasized that the protests are not directed against Lidl employees, but rather against the “supermarket empire” and the associated “privatization of the public sphere”. The Schwarz Group itself has not yet commented on the content of the protests, but asks for your understanding for their reticence.

In addition to the banner unveiling, information stands, campaign brochures and discussion groups are planned to raise people's awareness of the topic. The protest is supported by a broad base and aims to raise public awareness of social inequality.

The context of resistance

The activists' statements make it clear that many people see the rise of leading figures like Dieter Schwarz as a symbol of a society in which wealth and influence are in the hands of a few people. While Black is celebrated for his influence on social initiatives, protesters demand that the discussion be about social justice and distributive justice. The term “modern feudalism” is frequently used in activists' speeches and writings to vividly describe the gap between rich and poor.

With creative measures and a clear focus, the protesters not only want to draw attention to the problems, but also initiate a large-scale discussion about the distribution of resources and power in modern society. In Heilbronn, Dieter Schwarz's city, there is an exciting area of ​​tension between praise and criticism, which will be at the center of the upcoming protest activities.