rssDec 20, 2025, 06:00

Many nightlife businesses worried about the future: Fishing in the same pond

A survey of 26 Amsterdam nightlife businesses reveals that nearly half of entrepreneurs fear for their survival due to declining visitor numbers and falling revenues. This downturn is attributed to rising costs and changing lifestyle habits among young people, who are spending less money and time in clubs compared to the pre-pandemic era. Owners report that the industry is struggling as it competes for a shrinking pool of customers who increasingly find clubbing prohibitively expensive.

Politics Economy Business Culture Amsterdam

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Based on reporting by rss. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

The 100-year history of Hema is quintessentially Amsterdam

The Dutch retail chain HEMA is celebrating its 100th anniversary since opening its first store in Amsterdam in 1926. The company, known for its household goods and the popular rookworst sandwich, has evolved over the century to serve a diverse range of customers.

Rembrandt House Museum struggles with falling visitor numbers due to rising hotel VAT and tourist tax: ‘This policy is killing us and the entire city’

Amsterdam's cultural sector is voicing strong opposition to rising tourist taxes and VAT increases, which are blamed for a significant drop in international museum attendance. The Rembrandthuis is among the institutions facing financial strain due to these policies and a negative shift in public attitude toward visitors.

Years of illegal use of Schiphol: environmental groups and local residents take legal action over cabinet plans

A coalition of environmental groups and residents has challenged new government regulations for Schiphol Airport at the Council of State. The plaintiffs claim the rules legitimize years of illegal operations and are seeking a mandatory reduction in flight numbers.

Outdated information used in documents on tourist and advertising taxes

The Amsterdam city council has delayed voting on tax regulation changes after officials discovered that outdated versions of the documents were inadvertently used. Finance Alderman Hendrik Jan Biemond apologized for the errors, which included technical inaccuracies in the definitions of tourist and advertising taxes, and rescheduled the vote for December.

Not just IDFA: Amsterdam’s wider cultural sector hit by rising hotel costs as tourist tax hike drives away key visitors

Amsterdam's cultural sector, including major events like IDFA, ADE, and the Holland Festival, is struggling due to rising tourist taxes and hotel VAT. These increased costs are forcing organizers to raise ticket prices and reduce programming, threatening the accessibility and quality of the city's cultural offerings.