Fifteen supermarkets closed in Brussels and demonstration in front of 16 rue de la Loi: anger still rumbles at Delhaize

They asked to be received in order to negotiate an immediate moratorium on any passage of franchised stores from the lion brand.

The demonstrators took whistles, banners and smoke bombs to settle in front of the seat of the Belgian government, which meets every Friday morning for a council of ministers.

However, this meeting is being held remotely this Friday. Delhaize workers and CNE activists have called for a meeting with the federal government to demand action against Delhaize’s decision to franchise all of its 128 unfranchised stores. They want an immediate moratorium on any duty-free passage of these supermarkets. They also demand that the government “enforce the spirit of the laws intended to protect workers”. The rally, called “civil disobedience” by the organizers, was organized in a neutral zone, a perimeter where any demonstration is normally prohibited.

Strong tensions at Delhaize in Mons: insults are heard, the staff leaves the store

The police finally evacuated the area, calmly, after about thirty minutes and the demonstrators continued their action at the Arts-Loi crossroads. A CNE delegation was able to meet the Prime Minister’s office to put forward its demands. The action ended after 12:00 p.m.

Fifteen Delhaize supermarkets closed in the Brussels region

Fifteen Delhaize supermarkets are closed on Friday in Brussels due to industrial action, said Roel Dekelver, spokesman for the supermarket chain.

A social conflict has affected Delhaize since March because the group announced the transformation of 128 stores into franchises.

Since then, unions have kept stores closed regularly. Delhaize is challenging this in court, through unilateral motions. Currently such a ban on blocking only applies in Hainaut.

Delhaize says it will do everything possible to keep stores open. The chain also sends bailiffs to stop the blockages and make a statement.