Sector
Hospitality & catering

The hospitality and catering sector covers all eating, drinking and accommodation establishments.

When starting and running a hospitality business, certain responsibilities rest with the entrepreneur. This applies both to the natural persons, the de facto association or the legal entity, for whose account and risk the catering establishment is operated. This is because of the specificity that characterises the hospitality sector.

 

Regulation in the hospitality industry 

The government has set rules to prevent infringements and abuses and to ensure quality and safety within the sector. Some focus areas are:

  • Licence to serve liquor: an establishment, before it is allowed to serve alcohol, must meet the strict conditions set out in the ‘Act of 28 December 1983 on the provision/sale of spirits.’
  • Accessibility and safety: as a publicly accessible building, your catering establishment is subject to the ‘Flemish Government Decree dated 5 June 2009 stipulating the regional urban development regulations pertaining to accessibility’. This also encompasses various specific fire and safety instructions.
  • Urban planning requirements: one must check whether the location is suitable for a catering function and meets the regulations on the size and establishment of the business.

 

Legal challenges in the hospitality industry 

The specific problems associated with operating the hospitality business should also not be overlooked. Disputes often arise in relation to:

  • Commercial leases;
  • Collections;
  • Neighbourhood nuisance.

In addition, there are of course other prevailing regulations applicable to the hospitality sector. This is precisely why our firm, with our experience and expertise, is happy to help you start up your catering establishment, obtain and maintain the necessary permits and allow your business to flourish. Of course, you can count on us if certain problems or procedures arise.

Our specialists in the field

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How can we help you?

If you would like more information, a personal conversation is the most appropriate way to do so. You can always make an appointment by phone or e-mail, or contact us directly.