Belgium Center Measures

As of Monday May 11^th, Belgian shoppers can go shopping again in a comfortable and safe surrounding of the most popular shopping destinations. In concrete, guests and retailers will have to take into account a few simple, but clear rules that will also be visible on the info-screens and digital screens in the centers.

1. Changed parking

Of course it is possible to come to the shopping center by car. In a number of areas the parking spaces will be slightly reduced. For instance, it could be possible that at certain centers the rooftop parking is closed. This measurement is necessary to guide visitors in a structured manner to and from the shopping center. Several parking areas will be redesigned that social distancing can be respected, for instance by leaving 1 parking space open.

2. Separated entrance and exit

Depending on the size of the shopping center, there will be a limited number of entrances opened. Every time there will be one door designated for entering and another for exiting. You will be able to find the correct direction outside and inside the center through visible arrows and large stickering in clear colors. Adjusted door sensors make sure you will not walk in our out in the wrong direction. Security staff is present to help you out if necessary.

3. Real-time tracking of visitor numbers

The number of visitors present in the enclosed shopping centers will be limited, just like in the stores, to one visitor per ten square meters. This is to ensure that the ‘social distancing’ of 1.5 meters can be respected and guaranteed as much as possible. Where technically possible, the managers of the centers will continuously monitor visitor flow. In case the maximum level is reached, security staff will allow new visitors to the center step-by-step.  

4. Hand disinfection

a high level of hygiene is of course very important. Therefore, the security staff, host and hostesses will offer you the possibility to disinfect your hands when entering the shopping center, through a spray or hand gel. In some shopping centers they will be able to assist you with this, in other cases visitors can use disinfecting-stations that are spread throughout the centers. Depending on the size of the shopping centers, there will be cleaning-crew active during opening hours. They will take care of additional cleaning of contact points. The shops will also provide hand gels.

5. Face masks

The people that do not have a face mask available, can purchase a basic-but-safe face mask at the info desk or vending machine. There will be a two euro charge, which will be donated to charity. Payment will only be done electronically and preferably contactless. Before you use a payment terminal, you will be asked to clean your hands.

6. Access to shops

Similar to what has been the case for supermarkets, other retailers will have to limited shop access at busier moments. At that moment, it cannot be ruled out that you will have to stand in line. It will be organized in such a way that the access to other shops will still be possible, and there is sufficient distance between you and other shoppers. The shopping centers will be cleared from seating and plants as much as possible, in order to ensure an open pathway as much as possible.

7. Children and babies

For those that are planning to visit the shopping center with young children and/or babies, should take into account there are certain limitations. For instance, the play areas will remain closed, as well as the baby corners. Babies can still be cleaned and fed in the designated areas near the public toilets. It is recommended to only visit with children in case of real necessity and therefore need to fit the items.

The managers of the shopping centers emphasize that they are obey the rules and regulations set by the government. Their own measurements taken will be constantly evaluated, and if necessary, further enhanced. The known open hours will be kept. Other suppliers of the shopping centers will be provided with additional regulations towards hygiene.