A stable and reliable group

The Sofabel Group is far more than just a local retail brand. With three general food and household goods stores, Sofabel, Annasr, and Anfa 123, the company has established itself as an essential player in the dynamic neighborhoods of Brussels. True to its values of proximity, service, and adaptability, Sofabel continuously seeks to optimize its operations to provide a seamless experience for its customers. This led to a partnership between BNP Paribas Fortis and Axepta BNP Paribas Benelux, transforming a simple proposal into a comprehensive partnership. 

A solution born from initiative, not request

Unlike many projects, this collaboration was not initiated by an explicit customer request but rather by a proactive approach from BNP Paribas Fortis, which took the initiative to set up a meeting after reviewing the portfolio with Axepta BNP Paribas Benelux. During this exchange, the Axepta BNP Paribas Benelux team identified a more competitive offering in terms of payment fees for the Sofabel group, presenting an ideal opportunity to propose a more advantageous solution. The approach was straightforward: compare the customer’s current invoice with Axepta BNP Paribas Benelux’s offer, then organize a meeting to present the solutions. Sofabel first tried the new system in one store before using it in all their locations. The feedback was immediate: a clear interface, funds available within one business day on their bank account, and instant, reliable support. Satisfied, the customer quickly extended the solution to its two other stores, Annasr and Anfa 123. 

A smooth and complementary collaboration

The success of this project is based on ideal collaboration between the various stakeholders. Sébastien Dubois, Relationship Manager at BNP Paribas Fortis at the Brussels-South Business Center, played a key role in initiating contact and organizing exchanges, while Kevin Solo, Account Manager at Axepta BNP Paribas Benelux, provided technical expertise by presenting payment solutions and guiding the customer through implementation. The complementarity of the two parties enabled quick decision-making and a seamless installation. Sofabel thus benefited from tailored support adapted to its concrete needs. 

Expanded perspectives for a sustainable relationship

What was initially intended as a simple optimization of payment fees evolved into a comprehensive banking relationship. Impressed by the quality of the services, Sofabel decided to centralize all its cash flows with BNP Paribas Fortis, as well as its working capital financing contracts (Straight Loan), further strengthening the partnership. But the ambitions do not stop there. Thanks to this successful collaboration, new opportunities have emerged, such as the renewal of payment terminals via Axepta BNP Paribas Benelux. For Sofabel, BNP Paribas Fortis is no longer just a bank, but a strategic partner ready to support its long-term development. 

A success story that inspires

This story perfectly illustrates how initiative, listening, and complementarity can transform a simple proposal into a win-win partnership. By anticipating Sofabel’s needs and responding with tailored solutions, BNP Paribas Fortis and Axepta BNP Paribas Benelux not only secured a loyal customer but also opened the door to future collaborations. Proof that, in the banking world as elsewhere, proactivity and trust are the keys to a lasting relationship.