Makro stores in Belgium are open for the last time this Friday, until 3 p.m., before closing permanently. Unions are present in all stores to support staff. “Most products are gone, so the opening is for form“, specifies Wilson Wellens of the liberal union CGSLB.
Many shelves are empty and few products are available due to heavy traffic in stores this week, explains the trade unionist. “People were taking the products before they might be placed on the shelves and there were also thefts.“
Revolted, disappointed employees
In total, nearly 1,400 people will lose their jobs. The catering wholesaler Metro might – and unlike Makro – survive thanks to a sale to the Dutch group Sligro, saving some 500 jobs.
In front of the Makro store in Lodinsart, the parking lot is full and customers are flocking to take advantage of the latest promotions, up to 90% off on items; 20 to 25 people were already queuing in front of the store before the doors even opened.
On the side of the store employees, the pain is present and they have the impression of having been abandoned by their employer. Maurice, who worked at Makro for more than 35 years, is devastated.
“It’s shameful, but that’s how it is, we can’t say anything else“, he laments. “A page turns. My colleagues and I are going to find ourselves with empty pockets. Most of my colleagues are over 40 and finding a job will not be easy.“.
