Hot off the press: Ice Cream, drinks and barbecues

Hello everyone!

Phew, this June sure is hot enough 😅! Have you ever wondered how this intense weather affects your favorite retailer while you reached for your ice-cold drink during one of your many BBQ parties?

Get ready to explore the impact of heatwaves on Colruyt Group. But before we dive in ✈️, take our summer quiz and see if you can keep your cool!

1. The battle against thirst: When the mercury rises, one thing is certain: people get thirsty! And what's the ultimate weapon against dehydration? You guessed it - refreshing drinks! From thirst-quenching sodas to revitalizing mineral water, the demand for beverages skyrockets during a heatwave, sometimes doubling the sales of certain products. This is especially true at the beginning of the warm season when people tend to stock up on these items. Luckily, centralized stock management and efficient processes are part of Colruyt Group's DNA. This ensures that even during peak periods, we always have sufficient stock and can keep our beloved customers hydrated and satisfied at all times.

2. The paradise for grill masters: Ah, the unmistakable smell of barbecues being lit! Heatwaves are the perfect excuse for people to come together outdoors and fire up their grills. As temperatures rise, the demand for barbecue essentials reaches new heights. Colruyt becomes the destination for all grill enthusiasts, providing a sizzling selection of products to meet those summer cravings. Our in-store butchers always have everything on hand (meat, marinades, spices, etc.) necessary for a smooth preparation of barbecue items. This is an ideal local buffer and literally "tailor-made" for our customers.

3. Fruits and vegetables in the spotlight: Heatwaves and fresh produce go hand in hand. The scorching sun creates ideal conditions for the sweet treats of nature to thrive. Juicy watermelons, tasty strawberries, and a rainbow of ripe vegetables take center stage during this season. Colruyt maintains long-lasting partnerships with its suppliers to ensure an abundant supply of these summer delicacies and bring fresh produce directly to your orange shopping cart. Purchases of fruits and vegetables are made daily, so adapting is not a problem.

4. Ice cream frenzy: Is there anything better than a scoop of ice cream on a sweltering day? We certainly don't think so! Heatwaves unleash a frenzy among frozen dessert lovers, with ice cream being the undisputed highlight of summer treats. Prepare for a brain freeze during these hot days.

5. Adaptability and creativity: Heatwaves can bring challenges, but Colruyt Group can always rely on its "good weather scenario." We closely monitor weather forecasts, and when a heatwave is announced, various departments immediately intensify their efforts in anticipation of the coming weeks.

The purchasing department ensures that the right products are delivered in sufficient quantities to our distribution centers (and production centers if it involves, for example, meat, cheese slicing, spreads, etc.). They collaborate with suppliers to arrange additional deliveries if necessary.

But other departments in the chain are also involved: logistics, for example, increases the number of deliveries to stores. In our distribution center in Ollignies, where beverages and fast-moving products pass through, our employees process approximately 250 trucks daily. During heatwaves, this can increase to about 300 trucks per day. That's why we make sure we have the necessary resources (people, fleet, products) to handle the situation.

Stay cool and enjoy your vacation!