Overijse is a place that few outside Belgium will know. Yet if ‘fresh’ and supermarkets are of interest, it is well worth a visit.

The town is the home of Cru, a format from Belgian supermarket group Colruyt, which has more of the farmers’ market than modern grocer about it.

Cru sells fresh produce that comes predominantly from local suppliers. Its emphasis on organic produce and location in a former farmhouse are a nod to the major supermarket’s foodie fresh credentials.

Practically, it is a world away from the aisles and checkouts of the standard supermarket. Its raw brick walls and mid-shop crates of fruit and vegetables are what might usually be found in wholesale markets.

Yet in spite of its farm-to-fork ambience, Cru packs a tech punch and shoppers are given a tablet to scan products they want to buy.

This is a trial and is not inexpensive, but it is a significant fresh development.