Isabelle Vanhecke stepped behind cash register 1 at the Lidl supermarket in Kortrijk on Saturday, September 26, 2026, to play her television alter ego, the stern cashier Tante Carine from the series ‘Nonkels’. The much-anticipated publicity stunt drew scores of fans and national media to the store, though meticulous crowd control measures prevented any genuine chaos from unfolding.
Crowd Control and Preparation at the Kortrijk Lidl
Ahead of the event, store management put strict safety and logistical protocols in place. Kim Geirnaert, communications manager at Lidl, outlined the strategy to manage the anticipated crowds. “Tien minuten voor de shift van Tante Carine laten we iedereen binnen, gewapend met een Lidl-tas in het thema van Nonkels,” Geirnaert said. “Iedereen mag maximum vijf artikels kopen als ze bij Tante Carine passeren.” Outside the building, organizers set up tents for waiting attendees, while additional security personnel and parking wardens monitored the premises. Customers entered through designated queues carrying themed shopping bags featuring artwork from the popular television comedy.
An Unusually Friendly Cashier Behind Register 1
Fans who arrived hoping to experience the abrasive personality of the fictional character encountered a remarkably warm reception instead. Actrice Isabelle Vanhecke admitted to pre-shift jitters before taking her post. “Eigenlijk heb ik weinig Carine-gehalte in mij,” Vanhecke said, noting her own nervousness about the large turnout. Shoppers like Wouter Tack and Lien Vanwalleghem from Izegem came with comedic intentions. “We komen hier voor tante Carine, natuurlijk,” Tack said, explaining their plan to ask the cashier to cut a package of pancakes into half-moons just to provoke a reaction. Instead, Vanhecke greeted them with polite helpfulness, leaving fans amused by the contrast with her television persona.
Support Staff and Fan Reactions
Filiaalmanager Isabel Vinckier assisted Vanhecke at the register throughout the busy hour, handling transactions and bagging items. Vinckier admitted she felt anxious prior to the shift, expressing concern that the television character might scold customers. However, the anticipated friction never materialized. Attendees including local couple Elise Van Biervliet and Isaac Asante embraced the lighthearted atmosphere despite the lack of on-screen attitude. “Tante Carine bleek helemaal niet de pittige dame uit de serie die mensen afsnauwt met een snak en een beet,” Van Biervliet said. “Als fans van de reeks Nonkels, hadden we daar toch een beetje op gehoopt. Maar zoals het nu gelopen is, zouden we het evendoed voor geen geld hebben willen missen.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Tante Carine?
Tante Carine is a stuurse (stern) fictional cashier played by actress Isabelle Vanhecke in the television comedy series ‘Nonkels’.
Where did the public appearance take place?
The event took place at the Lidl supermarket in Kortrijk on Saturday, September 26, 2026.
How many items could customers purchase at her register?
According to Lidl communications manager Kim Geirnaert, customers passing through Tante Carine’s checkout line were limited to a maximum of five articles.
Did the actress act stern with shoppers in real life?
No. Despite her reputation on television, Isabelle Vanhecke proved to be exceptionally friendly and polite to every customer during her hour-long shift.
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