Krëfel

180 jobs
Number of planned job losses

Announcement Date

5 February 2026

Employment effect (start)

1 April 2026

Foreseen end date

Description

Krëfel, a Belgian electronics retailer, announced the dismissal of 180 employees in its restructuring plan, which will affect staff at its stores, head office, and logistics platforms across Belgium. The first layoffs are scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2026, following the information and consultation phase with employee representatives in accordance with the wet Renault procedure. ??The company is restructuring primarily due to ongoing financial difficulties, intense competition, and shrinking profit margins, which have made previous cost control and sales stimulating measures insufficient to restore profitability.

Five stores in Izegem, Schoten, Oudenaarde, Oostakker, and Borgworm (Waremme) will close. Four stores and two logistics platforms in Flanders are affected. The cuts include 65 white collar employees and 115 blue collar workers, with shop warehouse roles hit hardest as these functions disappear. Job losses may be mitigated through internal mobility, reassignments, and voluntary departures. Logistics will be concentrated in four platforms and two hubs, with possible further closures.

Trade union ACV Puls has expressed shock and concerns over the plan, describing it as a significant blow to workers. The union has called for clear information and has indicated that it will monitor the consultation process. Krëfel currently employs roughly 1,100 people in Belgium.

Sources

• 6 February 2026: Het Nieuwsblad (www.nieuwsblad.be)