The display ban and the possibilities

The solution from Volckaert-Soetens PLC

We first turned to our northern neighbors, where a display ban on tobacco products has been in place since July 1, 2020. Although this Dutch market provided an interesting reference point, we noticed that the situation in Belgium differs in several aspects. This made it difficult to find a suitable and uniform solution for our customers," says Volckaert-Soetens PLC.

Therefore, the company also looked further, both within and outside of Europe. The goal of Volckaert-Soetens PLC was clear: to provide the best solution to its customers.

After extensive discussions with various manufacturers, each with years of expertise in this field, it became clear that most ultimately resorted to a traditional cabinet solution that complies with the requirements of a display ban. Such a cabinet effectively protects the products from consumer visibility, is user-friendly for the store manager, and offers good value for money with a long lifespan.

"The choice was clear: if this solution has proven successful in other markets, then it is also the right choice for Belgium. However, we wanted to refine it further, considering the differences in regulations per country – for example, in some countries, lighting is allowed, while it is not permitted in Belgium. We ultimately selected a manufacturer who convinced us with their high-quality, custom-made solutions. Together, we developed a specific configuration that perfectly meets the requirements of the Belgian market," says Volckaert-Soetens PLC.

"Volckaert-Soetens commitment was clear: to provide the best solution to the customers."

Perstablo

The possibilities

Solution 1:

Dark Market Display

A lockable cabinet in RAL color 7016 (Anthracite) with a height of 195 cm, a width of 100 cm, and a depth of 45 cm. Made up of two parts and easy to install:

- Upper compartment

5 shelves (extendable and tiltable for easy restocking)
Each shelf equipped with 15 flat pushers for cigarettes and/or e-cigarettes (a total of up to 75 facings possible)
Equipped with synchronized shutters for optimal ease of use

- Lower compartment

2 RYO/MYO sections
15 variable dividers to organize the shelves for tobacco, accessories, overstock, etc.
Equipped with synchronized shutters for easy use.

These solutions are slightly more expensive. For the exact price, Volckaert-Soetens PLC refers to its representatives.

"We ultimately selected a manufacturer who convinced us with their high-quality, custom-made solutions."

Solution 2:

DIY-KIT DARK MARKET

Although the company is convinced of the quality of this solution, it also wants to offer a second, slightly cheaper option. This is a basic alternative, in the form of a do-it-yourself kit.

With this option, you are also fully compliant with the new regulations, but you will need to roll up your sleeves. With the DIY-KIT DARK MARKET, you have 10 shutters, each 100 cm wide, that you can cut to size and easily attach to a pusher system.

"Expect a delivery time of 12 weeks."

Delivery time

Both solutions are offered by Volckaert-Soetens SA in pre-sale as you need to account for a delivery time of 12 weeks. Although April 1, 2025, may seem far away, it’s best to start thinking about the suitable solution for your store now.