New favorites come, old ones go—that’s how it is in Berlin, a city that’s constantly changing, welcoming the new while at the same time having to say goodbye to beloved places. While the reopening of the legendary Spreepark is already generating excitement, the time has come for the long-standing Nepal-Basar to say goodbye for good. And one of the most beloved neighborhood institutions in Berlin-Pankow is now joining the list of those bidding farewell: After 23 years, the Steppke toy store is closing its doors for good.
The owner-operated store at Ossietzkystraße 9, not far from Schönhausen Palace Park, will close for good at the end of December 2026. With this, the Niederschönhausen neighborhood loses a toy store that has been part of the local retail scene for over two decades and has been a fixture in the lives of countless families. The main reason for the closure is the failure to renew the lease. Managing Director Peter Steffen and his wife, who also works at the store, had been trying for months to keep the location open. However, the negotiations were unsuccessful. Added to this are rising prices and changing shopping habits, which are putting increasing pressure on brick-and-mortar retailers.
For the owners, the closure marks the end of a long business history. For months, Peter Steffen and his wife had tried to find a solution to keep the store open. However, since the lease was not renewed, it is now certain that Steppke will have to close its doors for good at the end of the year. The owners informed their customers of the decision with an emotional farewell letter displayed in the storefront window. In it, they recall the many children they’ve watched grow up over the years, personal conversations with families, and the excitement of young visitors in front of the store windows. For many people in the neighborhood, Steppke was more than just an ordinary toy store.
There are no plans to start over at a different location. The owners have decided against relocating, so Steppke’s history will come to a definitive end with the closure at the end of December 2026. The going-out-of-business sale has already begun, giving customers one last chance to purchase toys and gifts at this long-standing store.
Especially with Christmas just around the corner, the news is likely to come as a blow to many families. Christmas 2026 will be Steppke’s last holiday season. Anyone who would like to buy Christmas gifts at the toy store one last time will likely have the opportunity to do so until the end of the year. An exact closing date and any potential discounts during the going-out-of-business sale have not yet been announced.
