[In the Picture] Carrefour tests a mobile store called “The Box” at Plaisirs d’Hiver in Brussels

Carrefour is setting up shop in Brussels, at the foot of the Ferris wheel at the Plaisirs d’Hiver Christmas market, with The Box: a mobile store measuring less than 50 square meters. The supermarket chain is testing the new format, which can then be used at other events and festivals.

Modular container store

The mobile store has two levels. On the ground floor, visitors will find a micro-store offering a range of fresh and dry goods. A counter also serves coffee, hot chocolate, and pastries from Atelier Eclair. Upstairs, Carrefour has created a small coffee area where customers can enjoy their drink or treat. Two employees provide service, and payment can be made in cash or by card.

Carrefour is positioning The Box as an innovation in proximity retail: the concept consists of modular containers that can be quickly assembled and disassembled. Plaisirs d’Hiver is the first real-life test of the concept: from 2026, The Box will also appear in other busy locations in Belgium, from festivals to other major events.

As Plaisirs d’Hiver focuses on solidarity, Carrefour is contributing by also setting up a collection point for new and second-hand toys. Carrefour is moreover inviting its customers to round up the total amount of their shopping bill. The donations will be given to four Brussels hospitals and La Cité Joyeuse, a shelter that supports children in precarious situations in Molenbeek.