Krëfel to close five stores, putting 180 jobs at risk

Belgian electronics retailer Krëfel plans to close five loss-making shops and reorganise its head office and logistics operations. The move could affect around 180 of its 1,100 employees.
The company said it had informed staff representatives about a plan to improve its performance and strengthen its position in a highly competitive market. The first job losses are expected from the second quarter of 2026.
Krëfel has been struggling financially for several years, facing strong competition and low profit margins. Previous efforts to boost sales and cut costs have failed to return the company to profit. Without major changes, its future would be at risk, it said.
A formal consultation process with staff has now begun. “We want to enter into a constructive dialogue with our social partners and hope - if the plan is confirmed - to be able to find appropriate solutions in the interest of all employees involved," said CEO Vincent Nolf.
“We hope to be able to find appropriate solutions in the interest of all employees involved"
The restructuring plan is designed to turn Krëfel into an omnichannel retailer with 64 shops. The company said it was acting now to secure its long-term future.
Krëfel has reported losses in recent years and has already closed some stores. In 2024, it stopped selling kitchens and shut 15 showrooms, leading to 41 job losses.
The plan is backed by parent company United.b, which will invest in shops and IT systems.
#FlandersNewsService | Shoppers in Krëfel © BELGA PHOTO ERIC LALMAND
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