The week in business: 22 August
Dubai-Brussels connection, new Tesla showroom and an overview of the rest of the week's business news
Energy – Electrabel
The company would have faced a €670 million fine if it had been convicted of abusing its dominant position on the local energy market.
Banking – Natixis
The French financial institution is opening a private banking affiliate in Brussels at the end of September to cater to high-net-worth individuals.
Air – Emirates
The Gulf state carrier will inaugurate its daily Dubai-Brussels service on 5 September, allowing passengers to connect with the airline’s 145 destinations worldwide.
Cars – Tesla
The upmarket US electric automobile brand, with a showroom in Brussels, opened a new showroom and service centre in Aartselaar, Antwerp province, last week.
Handling – Aviapartner
The British 3I investment group is selling handling company Aviapartner, based at Brussels Airport and facing stiff competition from Swissport, to the American HIG Capital fund.
Hotels – Meridien
The bankrupt Brussels Meridien hotel has been acquired by the Russian-owned HDI Property group from its previous owners, the Swiss SHLC investment company. The new operator expects to reopen the hotel, located across from Central Station, in September and is negotiating the Meridien franchise agreement.
Supermarkets – Delhaize
The Brussels-based supermarket is believed to be considering the sale of its Bottom Dollar chain of 66 stores in the northeast of the US. Potential buyers include the German discount retailer Aldi and the Dutch Ahold distribution group. Delhaize’s other retail activities in the US include the 700 stores of Food Lion and Hannaford supermarket chains.
Tobacco – Verellen
The tobacco group, based in Wuustwezel, Antwerp province, which produces 185 million cigars and cigarillos a year under the Gold brand, is being acquired by the Scandinavian Tobacco Group. Some 125 workers are employed by Verellen, which was founded in 1868.
