At the Makro Cash & Carry Belgium store chain, there are empty shelves due to the uncertainty about the continued existence of the chain. “The longer the situation drags on, the worse,” says trade union representative Johan Van Loon (ACV Puls).
Earlier this month, the board announced that it wanted to apply for creditor protection for the company, through the judicial reorganization procedure. But the court has still not rendered a decision, so many suppliers are choosing to err on the side of caution and stop supplying, says trade union representative Johan Van Loon (ACV Puls). “Especially with fresh food, where the shelves are replenished daily, many products are no longer available.”
The empty racks are particularly annoying for staff and customers. Last weekend, the Makro van Machelen, among other things, remained closed, says Van Loon. According to him, all stores would be open again today.
Customers threaten to drop out and this threatens to put the retail chain in even more trouble, fears the trade unionist. “The longer the situation drags on, the worse.” This also poses a threat to the financially healthy parts of Makro, such as catering wholesaler Metro. “There are also empty racks there, while people come to Metro especially for fresh products.”
Judicial reorganization
The trade unionist hopes that the Antwerp company court will soon provide clarity and grant protection against creditors. “Normally she should make a decision by this week at the latest,” he expects. If the request for judicial reorganization is accepted, a judicial officer will be appointed who will manage the next steps for the transfer of activities. The procedure would take about four to six months.
No one from Makro’s management could be reached for comment today. Makro Cash & Carry Belgium has seventeen stores: eleven from Metro and six from Makro. In total about two thousand people work there.
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