He built one of Germany’s most iconic textile empires and became a symbol of loyalty, tradition, and business success.

Now, former Trigema boss Wolfgang Grupp has revealed in a deeply personal disclosure he recently tried to take his own life, just two days after smiling for photos at a company open day, surrounded by employees, friends and family.

The 83-year-old made the shock admission in a personal letter to Trigema staff, shared publicly with his family’s approval.

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“I have been in hospital since the beginning of last week,” Grupp wrote on Thursday. “Unfortunately, I only now feel able to speak for myself.”

The textile tycoon admitted deep personal struggles triggered the incident.

“I am in my 84th year and suffer from what is known as old-age depression.

“You start wondering if you’re even needed anymore.

“I have therefore tried to end my life.

“It may take a little longer until I will have fully recovered.”

The troubling episode followed a mysterious early‑morning incident at Grupp’s home in Burladingen, which prompted a major emergency response.

From smiles to silence

On Saturday, July 5, Grupp appeared the picture of confidence at Trigema’s open day in the small town where the company was founded in 1919 and remains its headquarters, in Burladingen, Baden-Wuerttemberg.

Tanned, wearing a yellow blazer, and flashing his trademark smile, the Trigema patriarch shook hands, posed for dozens of photos, and gave guests tours of his office proudly showing off the desk where he led the company for more than half a century.

Among the visitors was Mihael Lovric, who posted a photo with Grupp, describing him as “charming and full of life”.

But just two days later, on July 7, a rescue helicopter was called to the Grupp family home in Burladingen.

Grupp was rushed to hospital with serious injuries. Police confirmed they attended the scene but ruled out foul play.

“There are no indications of third-party involvement,” a spokesperson said, adding no criminal investigation was underway.

Local news outlets reported unconfirmed rumours of gunshots near the Trigema site around the same time, though police have not commented.

A man who never let others down

Trigema is a well-known German sports and leisurewear brand, iconic for its 100 per cent “Made in Germany” production, ethical manufacturing, and family ownership, with products exported globally and respected in niche markets for quality and sustainability.

Grupp became CEO of Trigema in 1969 at the age of 27, taking over the company founded by his grandfather in 1919.

Over five decades, he turned it into a household name, known for its “Made in Germany” label and commitment to ethical production.

Notably, he never made a single worker redundant for operational reasons — a point of pride he mentioned often in interviews.

He also kept his family close: his wife Elisabeth (59) and their children Bonita (35) and Wolfgang Jr (34) were regular fixtures by his side.

In early 2024, he officially handed the reins to his children, stepping back after more than 50 years at the helm.

Trigema’s name follows a tradition shared by other famous German brands.

Like Haribo, which combines the founder’s name and hometown, and Adidas, named after its founder Adolf “Adi” Dassler, Trigema is an abbreviation of its original company name: Trikotwarenfabrik Gebrüder Mayer (Mayer Brothers’ Knitwear Factory).

‘The most beautiful thing is feeling needed’

In a video interview recorded just a few days before the incident, Grupp was asked how it felt to let go of the company he had devoted his life to.

“The most beautiful thing in life isn’t counting your money,” he said.

“It’s the feeling of still being needed. Of still having value.”

In his emotional letter, Grupp admitted struggling with the sense of not being needed after stepping down.

He also urged anyone experiencing similar thoughts to reach out for help.

“Please, if you suffer from depression, seek professional support.

“Get help. Treatment is available.”

Mental health advocates have praised Grupp for going public with his story, saying it helps break the stigma around depression in older men and high-achieving individuals.

He remains in hospital, recovering from his injuries, and is reportedly stable.

“I deeply regret what happened and would undo it if I could.”

If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

For further information about depression contact beyondblue on 1300224636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.

You can also reach out to MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978 for confidential support.