Family business
Since November 2013, Seppe Claes, his parents Hélène and Ronny, and his sister Lien have been the face of Spar Kerkhoven. Eight years later, the store developed into a landmark in the neighbourhood, among other things because of their focus on fresh fruit and vegetables, self-made cold meat and catering products. Time to expand and run a second store in Kwaadmechelen, 13 kilometres away. "This was an opportunity I could not allow to pass," says Seppe. "I will work in both stores, so our regular customers in Kerkhoven will not have to miss me."
Expanding at all levels
In the past few months, Spar Kwaadmechelen was thoroughly revamped and received a fresh and modern interior. The former office moved to the first floor to win 40 m² and make the shopping experience even more pleasant. "That was not all, we really went all out," Seppe looks back. "Modern cash registers, a new floor, a different ceiling, a better layout, new refrigerated islands and bread cabinets, we even changed the store front. I am particularly proud of our traditional fresh market with a butcher and caterer on site. Customers like to see how we prepare our fresh products and they can ask questions."
Focus on sustainability
Spar Kwaadmechelen was sustainably renovated. The refrigeration system works on a much environment-friendlier coolant and we recover the heat released, which decreases CO2 emissions from the heating process. "If you look carefully, you will notice LED lights everywhere in the store. Much more energy-efficient than classic lights," Seppe Claes adds.
Customer-friendliness first
The main asset of Spar Kwaadmechelen is certainly the customer-friendliness with which Seppe and the entire team welcome their customers. Every day, the 12 co-workers receive their customers as well as many new people with a smile. "Spar Kwaadmechelen is situated along a busy road with many passers-by every day," Seppe says. "Fortunately, we have a large car park to welcome them all. It will be necessary, because we have many interesting actions planned in the first weeks." Spar Kwaadmechelen is looking forward to welcoming its customers in the renovated and larger store as from 20 May. All corona measures in force will of course be complied with.
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