Vienna – The financial collapse has drawn significant public attention and continues to raise pressing questions. Liabilities officially total 19 million euros. The Vienna Commercial Court has opened restructuring proceedings without self-administration. Twelve creditors have registered claims, and the debtor has offered a repayment quota of 20 percent within two years.
At the same time, several media outlets report substantially higher figures. According to these accounts, the overall financial exposure may reach up to 30 million euros. Such an amount would significantly expand the scale and implications of the case.
The court has not yet held the first examination hearing. During that session, it will determine which claims it recognizes and whether the proposed restructuring plan has a realistic prospect of success. Until then, key financial details remain unresolved.
Public Image Under Scrutiny
Creditors are assessing their potential losses while observers increasingly scrutinize Essl’s public profile of recent years. He cultivated an image shaped by art engagements, international appearances, and an upscale lifestyle. This portrayal now stands in sharp contrast to the current insolvency proceedings. Within business circles, discussions focus on how this financial imbalance developed and which decisions contributed to it.
Particular attention centers on Essl’s role as founder of the health company Slimbiotics. The startup positioned itself with scientifically tested probiotics, international expansion strategies, and ambitious growth objectives. These elements formed a core part of its public narrative.
Future of Slimbiotics in Question
The central issue now concerns the potential impact on the company. Officially, Slimbiotics is not insolvent, and no public records indicate regulatory proceedings against it. Nevertheless, when a founder faces financial failure of this magnitude, banks, investors, and business partners typically reassess their exposure and risk profiles.
Trust remains a decisive factor in the healthcare sector. Slimbiotics cites studies and clinical data to support its products. However, independent long-term evidence remains uncommon in this segment. In times of financial uncertainty, stakeholders examine corporate structures, financial data, and ownership arrangements with heightened scrutiny.
The company also maintains international business relationships. In cross-border contexts, supervisory and regulatory authorities generally monitor developments closely, particularly when substantial investments are involved. To date, no confirmed investigations have been made public.
The proceedings remain ongoing. The upcoming court hearing may clarify outstanding claims and financial structures. The decisive question persists: Can Slimbiotics operate sustainably and independently of its founder, or will the situation trigger further financial repercussions?
The coming weeks will likely determine the next phase of this case.

