New Ownership for Former “Happy Franky” Leisure Complex
Nach monatelangen Verhandlungen haben Andreas Waschk und Detlef Wintzen das ehemalige „Happy Franky“-Gebäude in Troisdorf erworben.
(eap) A new perspective is emerging for the former “Happy Franky” leisure centre in Troisdorf near Cologne, Germany: after the site was forced to temporarily close unexpectedly in the winter of last year, the property has now been acquired by a new ownership duo.
The leisure complex, which opened in May 2024, had envisaged transforming the former Hertie shopping center in Troisdorf’s pedestrian zone into a multifunctional venue for exercise, education, social interaction and leisure. Accordingly, a mix of entertainment, lifestyle, sports and gastronomy offerings settled at the site. However, even prior to the closure the EXPLORADO children’s museum had left the location due to infrastructural deficiencies, particularly around building and climate technology. Ultimately, the landlord had the circulation areas closed off, which led to a short-term cessation of operations.
Das EXPLORADO Abenteuermuseum hatte den Standort aufgrund infrastruktureller Defizite im Sommer 2025 verlassen und soll nun zurückkehren.
At the end of February, Andreas Waschk, founder and CEO of the Cologne-based EXPLORADO Group, and Detlef Wintzen, founder and managing director of insglück Gesellschaft für Markeninszenierung agency specializing in live communication and brand experiences, acquired the building with private funds. In their new role as owners and operators, they intend to gradually modernise the site and sustainably further develop the originally envisaged usage concept. As part of the restart, the name “Happy Franky” will be replaced and the EXPLORADO childre’s museum is scheduled to reopen on 2 April.
“We are familiar with the local structures and feel closely connected to the region. For decades, we have been developing and operating large special-purpose properties and successfully transforming complex buildings into vibrant, intergenerational locations of modern urban development with appeal beyond city limits. That is exactly our goal in Troisdorf. At the same time, it is important to us to work transparently and constructively with the city from the outset – on equal footing and in the spirit of a partnership-based development,” explains Waschk.
The development is also viewed positively by the remaining tenants – including the bouldering facility Stuntwerk, the Pilates studio Reform & Perform, and Funderground featuring laser tag, VR and escape room offerings. Pascal Schreiber, CEO of Stuntwerk Troisdorf, is convinced: “The concept has not failed. We as tenants have proven that. We have all realised that such a central place in the city and the region is needed and well received. I am confident that the new ownership structure will provide the right impetus to finally fully realise the great potential that exists in all the companies located there.” ■
