nrc.nl
Blokker Bankruptcy and the Future of Its Stores
The bankruptcy of Blokker, a Dutch household goods retailer, leaves its franchisees exploring options as other retailers seek to occupy vacated store spaces.
Dutch
Netherlands
EconomyLabour MarketNetherlandsReal EstateRetailBankruptcyFranchise
BlokkerOtto SimonWibraZeemanD-Reizen
Aart-Wim HeinenHans HummelinkBas DuijsensGertjan SlobDaniëlle Ter Beek
- What are the plans of independent Blokker franchisees?
- Many Blokker franchise stores, independent of the parent company, plan to continue operating. They are exploring alternatives like sourcing products through Otto Simon, a wholesaler, if Blokker's parent company fails to restart.
- What is the status of the Blokker store in Spakenburg?
- The Blokker store in Spakenburg, run by an independent franchisee, will remain open despite the company's bankruptcy. The store is profitable and recently expanded, and the owner is confident it can continue operating under the Blokker brand.
- What is the outlook for the retail spaces vacated by Blokker?
- The closure of Blokker's company-owned stores is expected to result in many retail spaces becoming available. These locations, often in prime spots, are anticipated to be quickly leased to new businesses, given high demand.
- Which companies are interested in taking over Blokker locations?
- Several retailers are showing interest in acquiring Blokker locations. Wibra, a textile discounter, is looking to take over around 100 stores, while other companies may also seek to fill the spaces.
- What is the broader context of Blokker's bankruptcy within the Dutch retail sector?
- The failure of Blokker highlights broader challenges in the retail sector. While overall consumer spending increased, the household goods sector, where Blokker operates, experienced a significant drop in sales, contributing to the rising number of retail bankruptcies.