Brussels Shops boarded up amid fears of repeat of last week's looting

Luxury boutiques and high-street retailers in central Brussels covered their windows with wooden panels to protect against possible looting as fresh protests raise concerns over further unrest. Shops across Brussels were boarded up on Saturday as businesses took precautions against a repeat of the looting and violence that hit the Belgian capital a week earlier. Though some clashes did eventually take place, they were limited in comparison. Along the city’s shopping streets, wooden panels covered display windows and entrances, turning stretches of retail frontage into blank walls. Luxury brands including Tiffany & Co., Prada, Versace and Ferragamo were among those taking protective measures. Lacoste, Nike and Nespresso stores were also boarded up, alongside smaller businesses, including an optician and a phone repair shop. The precautions extended beyond retailers, with a Quick restaurant covering its windows and entrance with wooden panels. Some businesses remained open despite the barriers. At Nike, customers could enter through an uncovered doorway, while Quick displayed a small notice reading “open” on its boarded frontage. Pedestrians continued walking past the shops, with traffic moving through the surrounding streets. The measures come amid fears of further disorder following calls on social media for a fresh gathering in Brussels on Saturday. Shops around Avenue Louise, Porte de Namur and Rue Neuve have reinforced their premises against possible damage and theft. Several stores on Rue Neuve were looted during unrest on 17 October. Police used tear gas and water cannon as rioters clashed with officers in central Brussels. For businesses trading on Saturday, the boards offered a way to protect their windows while keeping at least some doors open to shoppers.