Democratize Consumption!

Consumption knows no limits—yet the wear and tear of once-iconic shopping destinations is evident. We increasingly consume from our couches, bringing global shopping worlds to our smartphones.

Starting in May 2026, the Museum of Consumer Culture will present the first part of its exhibition in the former SportScheck department store in the heart of Wiesbaden's pedestrian zone as part of World Design Capital Frankfurt/Rhine-Main 2026. Entitled “Democratize Consumption! – From Department Store to Shopping App,” the exhibition highlights the close connection between consumption and democracy: from the early days of department stores to current issues surrounding online shopping, sustainability, and social participation.

The pop-up exhibition (May to October 2026) is both a museum of history and a laboratory for the future. It looks back at the golden age of consumer palaces that promised consumption for all, while inviting visitors to participate and reflect. Together, visions for the future of consumption will be developed and discussed.

The museum project is planned as a series with different modules on the history, present, and future of consumption. The long-term goal is to establish a permanent museum dedicated to consumer culture.