VBW Bauen und Wohnen GmbH is a housing provider based in Bochum, Germany, where it focuses its work on supplying homes and developing residential neighbourhoods. The company was founded on 21 December 1916 as Bochumer Heimstätten GmbH, with an initial purpose of providing affordable, purpose-built housing to disadvantaged families and individuals. 1
VBW reports that it provides homes for more than 40,000 people in Bochum, with a portfolio of over 12,600 company-owned apartments and 178 apartments managed on behalf of others. Its properties are spread across more than 30 neighbourhoods in the city. 1 Around 40% of its existing homes are subject to fixed rent controls. New-build homes are offered in roughly equal proportions as homes for sale, privately financed rentals and publicly subsidised housing. 1
The company’s activities include housing provision, new construction and neighbourhood development. Its stated approach combines construction and modernisation with improvements to residential surroundings and support for stronger local connections. It also develops housing concepts such as multigenerational homes, serviced apartments for older people and shared accommodation for students. 1
VBW’s managing director is Norbert Riffel, and Frank Thiel, managing director of Stadtwerke Bochum Holding GmbH, chairs its supervisory board. Stadtwerke Bochum Holding GmbH is the largest shareholder, with a 68.89% stake. 1 The VBW Stiftung, established in 2016, supports charitable projects in the company’s neighbourhoods, with a focus on youth and older people, education and welfare. 1