British-Albanian pop sensation Dua Lipa has put one of Antwerp’s independent bookstores in the global spotlight just days before taking the stage at the Sportpaleis for a three-night concert run.
The singer, who launched her online book club last week through her lifestyle newsletter Service95, named ‘De Groene Waterman’ as her first-ever “Independent Bookshop of the Month.”
Calling it “a cosy spot in Antwerp” that promotes “original, thought-provoking reads that spark ideas and conversations,” Lipa announced the choice on her social media channels, much to the delight of the local literary community.
For the staff at De Groene Waterman, the recognition came as a pleasant surprise. “Getting a compliment for what you do is always nice, especially when it comes from an unexpected source,” said Katrien Merckx, coordinator at the bookstore, in an interview with The Brussels Times. “The attention from Dua Lipa and her team has brought a wave of positive energy to our shop.”
The endorsement came about after a member of Lipa’s team reached out to the bookstore around three weeks ago, requesting a list of current reading recommendations. “We sent them some material, not thinking much of it. And then suddenly, there we were, featured by Dua Lipa,” Merckx added.
The publicity boost has already begun to show its effects. “Some people might remember now that they wanted to come by again, and we’ve also seen customers and partners beaming with pride that their favourite local bookstore has been acknowledged in this way,” said Merckx.
Dua Lipa is currently in town to perform three back-to-back concerts at Antwerp’s iconic Sportpaleis, scheduled for Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights. With such a packed agenda, a surprise visit from the star seems unlikely.
“With three concerts in three nights, I think the chances of her dropping by are very slim. We have not heard anything about it, in any case,” Merckx admitted.
Still, the door remains wide open. “She’s more than welcome. I think it would be great fun to chat about books with her,” Merckx said, smiling.
As for fans hoping for a bookstore sighting of their idol, there has been little indication of any fan presence hoping to catch a glimpse of the pop star. “Not that I have noticed,” Merckx noted. “Either way, should they not be heading to the Sportpaleis early to get a front-row place?”
Through her Service95 newsletter and newly launched book club, Dua Lipa continues to champion culture, literature, and independent voices. Her recognition of De Groene Waterman not only spotlights a cherished local institution but also strengthens the link between global pop culture and grassroots artistic communities.
Whether she visits or not, her shoutout has already left a lasting impression in Antwerp’s book-loving circles.
