During the Nazi era, it became increasingly difficult for companies with Jewish owners to do business.

The Bernheim brothers lost many customers due to their affiliation with the Working Group of German-Arian Garment Manufacturers, which prohibited business relations with Jews.

The economic exclusion forced the Bernheim brothers to sell their factory far below its value. They could not access the proceeds of the sale. Their bank accounts were frozen. Living in Germany no longer held any promise to them.