INSIGHT - With revenues under pressure, taxes rising, and customers more demanding, the traditional hotel model is reaching its limits. In this context, food and beverage is now taking on a central role in the business equation.

The Netherlands' leading foodservice wholesaler closed the 2025 financial year on a mixed but overall reassuring note. Sligro Food Group reported revenue excluding tobacco of €2.668 billion, a 1.7% increase year-on-year. While modest, this growth demonstrates resilience in a market characterized by pressure on both volumes and margins.

The strategic handover at Solucious marks a significant milestone for the Belgian market. When Pieter-Jan Vandevelde succeeds Yves Van den Brande as head of Colruyt's foodservice division, a promising talent takes over from a pioneer. This changing of the guard is all about continuous improvement (and growth).

Since January 1, Pieter-Jan Vandevelde has held the position of Business Unit Manager. His mission is to consolidate Solucious recent acquisitions and to continue the company's expansion in the Horeca and Public & Health segments, as the division has just crossed the €330 million revenue mark.

With a jump in revenue of more than 20% in the last financial year, Colruyt's foodservice specialist is establishing itself as a growth driver for the distributor.

INSIGHT - While fast food chains seem to have invaded the capital, the economic reality is more nuanced.