Filigranes bookshop plans to move, blames mobility policy

After two restructurings and a recent investigation into working conditions, Brussels bookshop Filigranes says it is moving due to the capital’s mobility policy.

“The adjustments in terms of mobility limited access to our shop,” said general manager Véronique Croisé.

“Therefore, we will move our shop in Avenue des Arts to a new location. We will stay within the same perimeter, but in a more accessible place. Constructive talks are ongoing with our suppliers, and we will continue our commitment to this institution, which has been around for 40 years.”

The move is set to take place between January 2025 and March 2026, with the exact location not known for now.

Filigranes has been under scrutiny in recent years following allegations of harassment by a former manager, who has since stepped aside but is still active within the company.

A number of employees requested formal psychosocial intervention about two years ago, due to problems in terms of wellbeing at work.

The current location has already seen "significant changes" since then, according to management, including downsizing its space.

Filigranes has also launched a new online shop and a campaign to reach more readers under the slogan "Come back, Brussels needs Filigranes and Filigranes needs you".

Apart from the restructurings and issues with working conditions, the bookshop has also faced the same issues many businesses are grappling with: sky-rocketing energy prices, record-setting inflation and a sluggish post-pandemic market.