Hasselt retailers enjoy strong sales period, with heat and tourism boosting business

Hasselt's retailers are celebrating a strong sales period, with many reporting better-than-expected results despite recent heatwaves. Philippe Massa of the Hasselt retailer collective noted widespread positive feedback, indicating a successful bargain hunting season.

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I hear positive sounds everywhere.

While the heat benefited sectors like swimwear, it posed challenges for others, such as furniture and interior stores. However, Massa indicated that these sales are expected to be made up in the fall, suggesting a resilient market.

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The good weather naturally has a positive effect for certain sectors. It will not surprise anyone that swimwear stores have very good figures.

A significant factor contributing to the robust sales is the rise in tourism. Massa highlighted that more visitors from the Netherlands, Germany, and Wallonia are discovering Hasselt, a trend that directly benefits local businesses. The increase in German tourists, in particular, has been noted.

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In other sectors, a heatwave is less good news, such as in furniture and interior stores. Yet it is not the case that sales there were suddenly very bad. They will make up for it in the fall.

Looking ahead, retailers are optimistic about the remainder of the summer. The sales period continues until Friday, with hopes for a busy weekend to follow. The upcoming Theater op de Markt festival is also expected to draw more visitors to the city, further boosting economic activity.

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More and more people from the Netherlands, Germany, and Wallonia are finding their way to Hasselt.