Mehedi Blushi has taken over as operational managing director of the Weidenhof GmbH in Plettenberg, succeeding longtime operator Susanne Vohwinkel, come-on.de reported in October 2026. The 31-year-old now leads the historic cinema and hotel complex alongside existing stakeholders, marking a major transition for the century-old cultural landmark.
Arriving from Albania and Building a Life in Plettenberg
Mehedi Blushi arrived in Germany from Albania in 2015 alongside his brother, Kastriot. Facing an initial deportation notice in 2016, he secured a legal visa after signing an apprenticeship contract with heating contractor Ralf Schawag. He subsequently earned his master craftsman title in installation and heating technology.
Today, Blushi speaks fluent German and resides just a short walk from the Weidenhof cinema. In addition to managing the cinema complex, he works part-time as a complaints claims specialist at Viega in Attendorn and operates an independent building services engineering business with partner Andreas Schmidt.
Preserving a Century of Film History
The Weidenhof building dates back to 1928, carrying on a tradition of film and hospitality that began when Alfred Greth founded the cinema in 1919. Dentist Burkhard Vohwinkel and teacher Susanne Vohwinkel took over the facility shortly after the turn of the millennium, expanding it with an annex while preserving the protected building’s historic character.
Susanne Vohwinkel began looking for a successor in 2022 and initially spoke with Blushi about the future of the family business. Blushi became a company shareholder in 2024 before stepping into the operational managing director role in March 2026. Longtime theater manager Melanie Jeismann continues her role at the box office, maintaining a tenure that spans a quarter of a century.
Upgrading the Cinema and Hotel Facilities
Blushi has already initiated modernizations across the property, starting with new floor coverings in the hotel rooms. Plans are also underway to upgrade the hotel entrance area. Following a hot summer in 2026, management is evaluating the installation of a high-capacity air conditioning system in the main auditorium.
Children of the previous operating family, along with Burkhard Vohwinkel, remain involved as co-shareholders in the GmbH and consult with Blushi on major capital investments. Blushi emphasizes his commitment to keeping the venue running for the local community, noting that the cinema remains a vital part of the town.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Weidenhof Transition
Who previously operated the Weidenhof cinema and hotel complex?
Burkhard and Susanne Vohwinkel operated the facility for over two decades after taking it over shortly after the year 2000, succeeding the era of Alfred and Magret Greth.
When did Mehedi Blushi officially take over management?
Blushi became a company shareholder in 2024 and formally assumed the role of operational managing director in March 2026, as reported by come-on.de.
What accommodations does the Weidenhof property include?
The traditional venue features four modern cinema halls equipped with digital projection and 3D capabilities, alongside a hotel and adjacent guest house comprising a total of 25 rooms.
Keep reading