Krëfel stops selling kitchens: 41 employees affected

Krëfel says in a statement that it wants to concentrate on household electronics. The kitchen activity will be phased out, resulting in the disappearance of fifteen kitchen showrooms in Belgium.

According to the press release, the kitchen activity operates in a “particularly complex and highly competitive environment” that is also affected by rising costs. “By gradually phasing out its increasingly less profitable activities, Krëfel can concentrate on its strong long-term strategy,” it said. “Our decision is the most responsible and logical one that will enable Krëfel to strengthen its leading position in the electrical market,” says CEO Jonathan De Nys.

The intention is to stop by the end of November. New sales files are no longer being started, but Krëfel still wants to process the signed orders. The company also says it will honor all existing warranties, including the ten-year warranty on installed kitchens. An after-sales service also remains active.

A solution is being sought for the 41 employees. “The intention is to keep them working,” says ACV Puls trade unionist Kristel Van Damme. The company said that any affected employee “will be able to apply for one of the open positions at Krëfel”.

Krëfel has 73 points of sale in Belgium and a webshop. More than 1,200 people work there. The chain is owned by the French group United B, which is part of the Mulliez family empire.