General

The days of low-cost packages imported directly from China are over, experts at the University of Antwerp predict. The sharp increase in shipping and delivery costs coupled with the capacity decrease caused by the coronavirus only add to existing problems.

The European Commission is filing a formal complaint against Amazon because it suspects the online platform uses data from sales partners in order to launch competing products of its own. The e-commerce giant risks a fine of 25?billion euros.

Non-food discounter Action is facing problems restocking its stores. Due to delays in China and reduced activity in distribution centres, the discounter was not prepared for the rush after lockdown ended in several countries. As a result, shelves still sit empty in some stores.

The coronavirus crisis will have an impact for a long time to come in the retail sector. This may be a threat, but it also offers new perspectives: many companies see opportunities to adjust their business model. Resilience is high, 'back to normal' is no option.

NIU, a Chinese brand of e-scooters, is opening its first Belgian store in Antwerp.

12:47: Supermodel Doutzen Kroes is ending her long collaboration with Hunkem?ller. The Dutch model has worked for the lingerie retailer for more than five years, but thinks the time has come for new challenges.

It is looking increasingly unlikely that LVMH will pay the agreed sum of 16.2 billion dollars for American jeweller Tiffany & Co. The French luxury group wants to get out of the deal or arrive at a lower takeover fee.