More and more retail properties in Limburg are being given a different purpose, such as catering, services or residential facilities. In our province, 1 in 11 commercial properties have been converted to a non-commercial function over the past ten years, according to a new report on our commercial centers.
In commercial properties, the share of shops decreased between 2013 and 2023 (from 40% to 34%) and the share of catering (up to 20%) and consumer-oriented services increased (up to 34%). One in five commercial businesses is currently a catering business. The number of eateries increased by 5.5% and the number of catering establishments for takeaway meals almost doubled.
Despite the decrease in the number of stores, the total retail floor area increased. There was a clear expansion of the surface area, especially in the personal care and food sectors (+31% and +26% respectively). Clothing/fashion (-10%), do-it-yourself (-6%) and electrical stores (-20%) have lost space. Among the large chain stores with a surface area of more than 1,600 square meters, Limburg’s growth stands out within the Flemish figures.
Deputy for Economy Tom Vandeput responds: “It is positive that the oversupply of shops in our province is decreasing. Based on the Limburg purchasing power figures, this oversupply was not viable, resulting in vacancies. The shift to other functions proves that our trading centers are increasingly adapting to market and consumer expectations. A good mix of functions creates vital trading centers that provide the desired shopping experience.”
