It is a well-known phenomenon in the city center of Harense: vacancy in shops. Many buildings are empty, especially in Brinkhorst, but that is about to change: “I think entrepreneurs will dare to do it again.”
Daphne de Haan, center manager of Haren, walks around the Brinkhorst, chatting here and there with villagers. There are posters behind the windows left and right: ‘for rent’. It is an image that Haren residents have known for years, and despite many efforts has still not improved. “The corona years and high rents have made it difficult for retailers to settle here. You really need five years to see whether your business is profitable, but often entrepreneurs leave here after two years.”
Although the Central Bureau of Statistics published positive figures last week about the retail supply in the municipality of Groningen, shops in Haren have been empty for years. Because of finances, but according to De Haan also because of the shortage of employees and the lack of successors. For example, Beans & Grapes recently had to close its doors after ten years, partly due to a lack of staff. “We have many small shops in Haren where the owner is just in the shop. But unfortunately it is difficult to find staff.”
Three more shops
Now there is good news: three new stores will soon be opened in Haren, including in the Brinkhorst. Two have already been finalized, the third entrepreneur is negotiating. “Very nice for the center and the residents,” says De Haan. “It is a turning point for the village, I think entrepreneurs will dare to establish themselves again.”
Aldi’s plans for the Raadhuisplein must also be given new impetus. The exploratory phase started in 2014 and met with a lot of resistance from local residents. After the intervention of the Council of State, the plans had to be adjusted. The plan now is to start construction in 2026. The Aldi should be there by 2028. De Haan hopes that the construction of the supermarket will continue. “It’s good for the village. It is a shame that the beautiful trees on the square have to be cut down, but we are in discussions with the municipality to get more greenery in the center.”
Strong center
De Haan envisions a more centered shopping center in the future, with entrepreneurs on the edges of Haren making way for service providers, such as physiotherapists and gyms. “Then you will eventually create a strong heart of shops, instead of all loose veins.” She sees that many entrepreneurs are renovating their buildings, which, according to the center manager, indicates that they want to stay.
But De Haan also points to the influence that shoppers have and hopes that people will continue to come to the center. “It really is a typical village. There is a lot of personal contact where everyone knows each other, and you miss that experience when you make purchases online.”
Tags: arrival stores turning point infamous Brinkhorst store vacancy Haren
