rssMar 9, 2026, 14:00

Quality mark to combat retail uniformity: 'Lots of monoculture, the tourist formula'

Entrepreneur Bonne Reijn has launched the 'Zegel van Amsterdam', a quality label designed to combat retail monoculture by supporting authentic and culturally significant local shops. The initiative aims to preserve diversity in Amsterdam's shopping streets, and residents are invited to share their ideas for the city's retail future at a dedicated pavilion. This project focuses on revaluing businesses that provide social value beyond the standard tourist-oriented offerings.

Business Culture Amsterdam Netherlands

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Domestic violence in Haarlem rises for second year in a row

The number of households in Haarlem reporting domestic violence to Veilig Thuis rose for the second consecutive year, with 840 cases recorded last year. A majority of these reported incidents involved child abuse.

Summit on phasing out fossil fuels begins in Colombia

Colombia and the Netherlands have launched the first international conference on phasing out fossil fuels in Santa Marta, Colombia. The six-day event features 56 participating countries that together represent approximately 20 percent of global fossil fuel production.

House fire on Rijnstraat in IJmuiden quickly under control

A small fire broke out in the windowsill of a house on Rijnstraat in IJmuiden on Friday evening. Emergency services quickly brought the situation under control, and no injuries were reported.

Bilal Wahib to become a father for the first time: 'Last birthday with the two of us'

Singer and actor Bilal Wahib and his fiancée Sophie Keizer have announced they are expecting their first child. The news follows the couple's announcement earlier this year that they are planning to get married.

Halsema closes Slotervaart youth center for six months after multiple explosions

Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema has ordered the closure of a youth center in Slotervaart for six months following two explosions in April. The decision aims to restore public safety and allow for a police investigation after surveillance measures failed to prevent a second incident.