Belgian homeware retailer CASA has filed for bankruptcy, putting 544 jobs at risk and leading to the closure of 63 stores, its headquarters, and its distribution centre in Olen.

The company, struggling with financial difficulties for years, cited mounting debt and an unfavourable retail market as key reasons for its collapse. Efforts to restructure and secure new investors failed to produce a viable solution.

CASA, which operates in eight European countries with over 2,200 employees, had been under judicial protection since October 2024. However, negotiations with creditors and potential buyers did not lead to a rescue plan. The protection period was set to end on 12 March.

Despite discussions with 12 potential investors, no agreement was reached for a takeover or financial injection. CASA had previously attempted to stabilise its business by closing loss-making stores and reorganising its headquarters, but continued market pressures made recovery impossible.

Closed stores

The case has now been submitted to the commercial court in Turnhout, which will determine the future of the company’s assets and employees. For now, all Belgian stores remain closed.

The fate of CASA’s international stores remains uncertain, as outcomes will depend on local laws and financial conditions in each country.