MediaMarkt takes over Makro’s electronics business

The multimedia chain MediaMarkt is to take over the electronics business of supermarket Makro, which has six branches in Belgium.

Makro announced last year that it would scrap 505 of its 3,000 jobs in Belgium. Some of those jobs may now be rescued by MediaMarkt.

The announcement followed a reported loss of €33 million, and involved the company restructuring to concentrate on fresh food, building materials and party accessories such as balloons and barbecues. MediaMarkt expressed an interest in the electronics activities in the six stores and negotiations are now complete.

“We will start work in mid-January to convert the electronics departments of Makro stores into MediaMarkt branches,” said Sven Degezelle, director general of MediaMarkt. “The process should be completed by mid-May.”

Makro still plans to get rid of 505 jobs, according to a company spokesperson. “But that includes employees currently working in our electronics departments,” she said. “They may be able to find places elsewhere in Makro, but they can also apply for jobs with MediaMarkt.”

The company has assured customers that products bought from Makro will continue to be guaranteed by MediaMarkt.

Photo: Heidas/Wikimedia