The Dutch economy grew by 0.4 percent in the second quarter compared to the previous quarter, according to Statistics Netherlands. This growth, which was primarily driven by higher consumption, represents an increase compared to the first quarter of the year.
The trade union FNV has accused the drugstore chain Kruidvat of fostering an unsafe working environment and using intimidation tactics. While the union describes the situation as alarming, academic experts characterize the events as isolated incidents.
Ice cream manufacturer Magnum reported a 4.7 percent increase in sales during the first half of 2026. The company benefited from hot weather across Europe, with particularly strong sales growth in France and the United Kingdom.
Grid operator Enexis reported that its waiting list for new or upgraded electricity connections grew by 734 requests in the first half of the year. Despite doubling its newly constructed grid capacity, over 11,000 customers are currently waiting for a connection.
Vinted sellers are increasingly using AI-generated model photos to showcase second-hand clothing instead of photographing themselves. However, the platform prohibits this practice because it can lead to misleading information for potential buyers.
Shell reported a significant increase in second-quarter profits, reaching 9.8 billion dollars compared to 6.9 billion dollars in the first quarter. This growth was driven by rising oil prices resulting from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.