Revamped Spar Koningshooikt Set to Reopen on 20 February
On Thursday, 20 February, the Revamped Spar Colruyt Group store in Koningshooikt will officially reopen its doors following an extensive renovation. Over the past three weeks, the store has undergone a complete transformation, aligning with the latest generation of Spar stores that emphasize freshness, convenience, and sustainability. Entrepreneurs Yannick Van Elst and Sophie Nuyens, alongside their dedicated team, are thrilled to welcome customers back to a revamped shopping experience that promises quality, modernity, and comfort.
A Much-Needed Renewal for an Enhanced Shopping Experience
For the local community, the reopening of Revamped Spar Koningshooikt marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Nestled in the heart of Dorpsstraat, the neighborhood supermarket has long been a cornerstone of the community, and its recent makeover ensures that it remains a welcoming and state-of-the-art shopping destination.
“The need for renewal was evident,” explains entrepreneur Yannick Van Elst. “One of the most pressing issues was the flooring, which required significant refurbishment. A well-maintained store environment is crucial for both customers and staff, so we prioritized this aspect during renovations.”
Yannick and Sophie, who also manage a Revamped Spar store in Duffel, were already familiar with the advantages of modernizing their store concept. The successful upgrade of their Duffel branch served as a model for Revamped Koningshooikt’s transformation, reinforcing their confidence in this new direction. “We have seen firsthand how customers appreciate a fresh, modern store environment. With this renovation, we are bringing those benefits to our customers in Koningshooikt.”
Beyond interior improvements, the store’s exterior has also received a facelift. The updated façade presents a refreshed, contemporary look that not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also reflects the store’s renewed commitment to serving the community in a modern and efficient manner.
A Rich Heritage: Family-Owned Since 1935
The story of Revamped Spar Koningshooikt is deeply rooted in family tradition, dating back to 1935. Originally established as a butcher’s shop by Yannick Van Elst’s great-grandfather, the business has evolved significantly over the decades, adapting to changing consumer needs while maintaining its core values of quality and service.
In 1969, the store expanded into a full-fledged grocery shop, responding to the growing demand for a more comprehensive shopping experience. By 1981, it had transitioned into a supermarket, further solidifying its role in the community.
For Yannick, the family business has always been a part of his life. “I started helping out as a student at the age of 15,” he recalls. “After completing secondary school, I officially joined my parents’ business, taking evening classes to train as a butcher. My grandfather was a butcher, and I wanted to follow in his footsteps, so I took over the butcher’s shop within our supermarket.”
His journey culminated in 2021 when he took full ownership of the store. Alongside Sophie Nuyens, he has been instrumental in maintaining the business’s legacy while ensuring it remains relevant in a fast-evolving retail landscape.
A Focus on Freshness and Quality
With the renovation, Revamped Spar Koningshooikt is set to offer an even greater focus on fresh and high-quality products. The new store concept prioritizes freshness across all departments, ensuring customers have access to the best produce, meat, dairy, and bakery items.
“We noticed that customers in our Duffel store responded very positively to the renewed Spar concept, which emphasizes fresh and delicious food,” Yannick shares. “We are confident that the same approach will be well received here in Koningshooikt.”
One of the standout features of the revamped store is its bakery section. Freshly baked bread and pastries will be available daily, enhancing the overall shopping experience. “A well-stocked bakery is essential for any supermarket, and we’ve taken extra steps to make sure our customers enjoy a wide selection of high-quality baked goods.”
Additionally, the store will continue to emphasize locally sourced products, ensuring that customers have access to fresh and sustainable options that support regional producers.
Sustainability at the Core
Sustainability has been a key focus of the renovation. As part of the Colruyt Group’s commitment to environmentally responsible retailing, Revamped Spar Koningshooikt has implemented several eco-friendly upgrades designed to minimize its environmental footprint.
“All our refrigeration units have been replaced with a more sustainable CO₂ refrigeration system,” Yannick explains. “This system is much more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly compared to conventional refrigeration methods.”
Beyond refrigeration, the store has incorporated other green initiatives, including LED lighting, improved insulation, and waste reduction strategies. These measures not only benefit the environment but also contribute to lower operating costs, which ultimately allow the store to keep prices competitive for customers.
“We recognize that sustainability is an important factor for our customers,” says Sophie. “By investing in greener technologies and practices, we are doing our part to create a more sustainable future while offering an enhanced shopping experience.”
Exciting Promotions to Celebrate the Grand Reopening
To mark the occasion, Revamped Spar Koningshooikt has planned a series of special promotions and events to thank its loyal customers and attract new visitors.
During the reopening weekend, customers can take advantage of exclusive promotions, including free products and special discounts on various items. Additionally, an exciting contest will take place over two weeks, offering customers the chance to win a fully stocked shopping trolley.
One of the highlights of the celebration will be a special event on Saturday, 22 February. On this day, Yannick and Sophie will personally treat their customers to a classic Belgian comfort meal—stew and chips. This gesture not only celebrates the reopening but also reinforces the store’s commitment to community engagement.
“We wanted to do something special to show our appreciation for our customers’ support,” Yannick explains. “Sharing a meal is a great way to bring people together, and we’re excited to celebrate this new chapter with everyone.”
A Bright Future for Spar Koningshooikt
As the store prepares to reopen its doors, Yannick, Sophie, and their team are filled with optimism about the future. The renovation has not only revitalized the store’s physical appearance but also strengthened its ability to meet the evolving needs of customers.
“We are committed to providing a top-tier shopping experience,” Sophie says. “Our customers deserve a store that is both modern and welcoming, and we believe these changes will make a significant difference.”
With a renewed focus on freshness, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, Spar Koningshooikt is poised to continue its long-standing tradition of serving the local community for many years to come.
The grand reopening on 20 February is just the beginning of this exciting new phase. Whether it’s the modernized layout, improved sustainability efforts, or the warm and familiar faces of the dedicated team, customers have plenty to look forward to as they return to their neighborhood Revamped Spar.
We can’t wait to welcome everyone back,” Yannick concludes. “This is more than just a supermarket—it’s a part of the community, and we’re proud to continue that legacy.
