[In depth] Colruyt, Aldi, Lidl, and labor unions launch a lobbying campaign over Sunday openings in Belgium

Together with three labor unions, Colruyt, Aldi, and Lidl are waging a remarkable campaign to create a so-called “level playing field” in the supermarket sector. This is intended to make Sunday openings affordable for discounters, but there is significant division within the sector.

Market share under pressure

The discount chains Colruyt, Aldi, and Lidl, together with three labor unions, have appealed to Minister of Economy and Labor David Clarinval (MR) for a “level playing field” in the sector, according to the newspaper De Standaard. In doing so, they are increasing pressure to address the disparities in wages and working conditions within the supermarket sector. After all, independent supermarkets currently offer lower wages and greater flexibility, which, among other things, makes it easier for them to open on Sundays.