How to open a wine shop?
Quick answer
Opening a wine shop in Belgium requires CBE registration, an excise number, and AFSCA authorisation if you host tastings. Average investment: 30,000-100,000 EUR depending on location and initial stock.
Detailed answer
Opening a wine shop (caviste) is a project at the intersection of passion and commerce. Here are the essential steps in Belgium.
Step 1: concept and business plan. Define your positioning: generalist (all regions), specialist (organic, natural, single region), or hybrid (shop + wine bar). Initial stock represents 30-50 % of the investment. Plan for 300-800 references for a generalist wine shop.
Step 2: location. Foot traffic is crucial: a wine shop thrives on impulse purchases and proximity. Affluent residential neighbourhoods, town centres, and village commercial zones are the best locations.
Step 3: formalities. Registration with the CBE (Crossroads Bank for Enterprises), VAT number, excise number (Customs and Excise, SPF Finances). If you host tastings or serve food, AFSCA authorisation is needed.
Step 4: supplier selection. Diversify between direct-from-estate (best margins, exclusivity), specialist importers (access to distant regions), and Belgian distributors (fast restocking). Attend trade fairs (ProWein, Vinexpo, Wine Paris).
Step 5: marketing. An e-commerce website has become essential — 35 % of wine sales in Belgium go through the online channel (2025). Social media (Instagram, Facebook) and events (tastings, workshops) build the local community.