Commerce & Services Netherlands

The network of supermarkets and hypermarkets in the Netherlands is very well developed, offering a wide range of outlets for various customer needs. There are several major supermarket chains in the country, with Albert Heijn, Jumbo, and PLUS leading the way.

 

Albert Heijn is the largest supermarket chain in the Netherlands, with about 1200 stores. This network includes three store formats: regular supermarkets, AH XL hypermarkets, and small AHtoGo stores located in high-traffic areas, such as train stations. 

 

The second-largest chain is Jumbo, operating around 700 stores. This network also offers several store formats, including large supermarkets, FoodMarket stores focused on fresh products, and small city stores. 

 

Among other significant market players are the German discounters Lidl and Aldi, which occupy significant market shares due to their focus on low prices and basic product range. At the same time, local chains such as PLUS and Hoogvliet offer a more personalized shopping experience with a focus on quality and local preferences.

 

Hypermarkets like AH XL and Makro stores, offering a vast assortment of goods including food, clothing, electronics, and home products, are also popular in the Netherlands.

The online retail market in the Netherlands is developing rapidly, and there are several major players dominating this segment.

Bol.com — The largest online store in the Netherlands, offering a wide range of products from books and electronics to furniture and toys. 

Albert Heijn (ah.nl) — The online store of the largest supermarket chain in the country, specializing in home delivery of groceries. 

Coolblue — One of the leading retailers of electronics and appliances. Coolblue is known for its high level of customer service and presence both online and offline. 

Zalando — A popular European online store for clothing and footwear, holding a significant place in the Dutch market.

Amazon.nl — Despite global dominance, Amazon ranks only fifth in the Netherlands. 

Other significant players include Jumbo (online supermarket), Wehkamp (universal online store), and Picnic (supermarket with exclusively online presence and home delivery).

Postal services in the Netherlands are characterized by a high degree of organization and extensive coverage, making them a reliable and convenient way to send and receive mail both within the country and beyond.

 

The main postal operator is PostNL, providing a high level of service for all residents of the Netherlands, including the remotest regions.

Wide network and convenience:

   - PostNL offices and service points are located throughout the country, including cities, small towns, and rural areas. They are often integrated into other commercial facilities, such as supermarkets and bookstores, allowing for convenient combination of postal and everyday errands.

   - PostNL mailboxes are easily recognizable by their bright orange color, and letters dropped in them by the specified time are delivered on the next working day.

 

Variety of services:

   - In addition to sending and receiving letters and parcels, PostNL offers a wide range of additional services, including the sale of packaging materials, mobile payments, and banking services.

   - For user convenience, online services are available, such as buying stamps, tracking packages, and finding the nearest postal points.

 

In the Netherlands, alongside the national postal service PostNL, there are several major international and local courier services offering a wide range of delivery services both within the country and beyond.

DHL - One of the largest logistics operators in the world, DHL offers both domestic and international delivery services. In the Netherlands, DHL also ensures same-day delivery and express delivery services.

UPS - An American company known for its express delivery services and logistics solutions. UPS actively operates in the Netherlands, providing a wide range of services to both business clients and individuals.

FedEx - The largest international delivery company specializing in express shipping. FedEx provides express delivery services for documents and goods, as well as offers e-commerce solutions.

DPD - A European courier service that operates actively in the Netherlands. DPD is known for its flexible solutions for businesses and private customers, including home delivery or pickup point options.

GLS - Another major European courier service operating in the Netherlands. GLS offers both standard and express delivery, as well as business solutions.

Telecommunications services in the Netherlands are characterized by a high level of development and competition among major providers. The main services include television, internet, and mobile communication, provided by both local and international companies. 

Internet

The Netherlands has one of the highest internet penetration levels in Europe, with about 98.9% of the population having internet access. Available technologies include broadband via DSL, fiber-optic (FTTP/B), cable modems, and fixed wireless access (FWA). The main internet service providers are KPN, VodafoneZiggo, and Odido (formerly T-Mobile and Tele2). These companies offer various tariffs, ranging from basic to high-speed packages with unlimited access.

 

Mobile Communication

The three main mobile communication operators — KPN, VodafoneZiggo, and Odido — provide nearly full coverage of the country, including remote areas. Mobile communication services include voice calls, text messages, and mobile internet (including 5G). The country also has several virtual mobile operators (MVNO), which offer more affordable services by using the infrastructure of major providers.

 

Television

Television services in the Netherlands are available in various formats, including cable, satellite, and IPTV. The most popular TV operators are Ziggo and KPN. The country also has highly developed video-on-demand services, such as Netflix, HBO Max, and Viaplay, which occupy a significant amount of the time Dutch people spend watching videos.

How to buy a SIM card in the Netherlands as a foreigner?

Choosing an operator: The Netherlands has three major mobile operators: KPN, VodafoneZiggo, and Odido. There are also many virtual mobile operators like Lebara, Lycamobile, and Simpel, which offer more affordable rates. These operators work on the networks of major companies but offer more budget-friendly packages.

Where to buy a SIM card:

- In retail stores: SIM cards can be purchased at brand stores of operators, as well as in supermarkets, kiosks, and electronics stores.

- At airports: If you've just arrived in the Netherlands, you can purchase a SIM card right at the airport. This is convenient but may be a bit more expensive than in the city.

- Online: Many operators offer SIM card purchase online with home or pickup point delivery.

 

Necessary documents:

Usually, no documents are required to purchase a prepaid SIM card. However, to enter into a contract with an operator, the following documents may be required:

- Passport or residence permit.

- Residential address in the Netherlands.

- Bank account in one of the Dutch banks for automatic payments.

 

How to connect to the internet?

Choosing a provider

There are several major internet providers in the Netherlands, including:

- KPN: One of the largest providers in the country, offering fiber-optic and DSL internet.

- VodafoneZiggo: Offers cable and fiber-optic internet, as well as "three-in-one" packages (internet, television, and phone).

- Odido: Provides internet via DSL and fiber-optic networks.

Selecting a tariff plan: After checking availability, you can choose a suitable tariff plan. Providers usually offer several options, including internet-only or combined packages with television and phone.

Applying: Connection can be applied for online on the provider's website, by phone, or in a brand store. You will need to provide the following information:

- Residential address.

- Personal data (name, surname, contact phone, etc.).

- Banking details for payment.

Equipment installation: Depending on the provider and type of connection, equipment installation may require a technician's visit. In most cases, the equipment (modem/router) is delivered to your home, and you can install it yourself by following the instructions.

 

Service activation: After installing the equipment and connecting it to the telephone socket or cable, you need to activate the service. This can be done automatically upon connection or through the provider's special portal.

In the Netherlands, there are many popular food and goods delivery services that provide convenience and variety for users.

Thuisbezorgd.nl (Just Eat Takeaway)

This is one of the most popular platforms for ordering ready-made food in the Netherlands. The service covers a huge number of restaurants, offering a wide range of dishes — from Italian cuisine to Asian. The user-friendly interface of the app makes it easy to select a restaurant, read reviews, and place an order.

Uber Eats

Uber Eats is actively operating in major Dutch cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam. The service is known for its fast delivery and wide selection of restaurants. Uber Eats also offers real-time order tracking features, allowing you to see where the courier is.

Picnic

Picnic is a unique service specializing in the home delivery of fresh groceries. The company uses electric vehicles for delivery, making it an environmentally friendly alternative. Picnic allows users to create personalized shopping lists and choose convenient time slots for delivery.

Albert Heijn

The Albert Heijn supermarket chain offers a convenient home delivery service for groceries through the AH Bezorgbundel app. You can order not only groceries but also ready-made meals. The app also allows you to plan meals and choose special offers.

Gorillas and Flink

These services offer super-fast delivery of groceries, often within 10-15 minutes. They are popular among people who need fast delivery of small orders, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, or household items.

In the Netherlands, the opening hours of stores and services vary depending on the type of establishment and its location, but there are general rules that will help you better navigate.

Main opening hours:

Regular stores:

   - Monday: Most stores open later, around 11:00 AM and operate until 6:00 PM.

   - Tuesday to Saturday: Stores are generally open from 9:00 or 10:00 AM until 6:00 PM. On Thursday or Friday, there may be a "late-night shopping" when stores close at 9:00 PM.

   - Sunday: In some large cities, stores are open from 12:00 PM to 5:00 or 6:00 PM, but in smaller towns, many stores may be closed.

Supermarkets: Supermarkets usually operate from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, including Sunday. In major cities like Amsterdam, supermarkets may stay open longer.

Banks: Bank branches are generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM but may work longer on Thursdays or Fridays. On Sundays, banks are typically closed.

Services and offices: Office and other service hours are usually from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with possible variations depending on the company.

Holidays and special days:

   - On holidays such as New Year, Easter, Christmas, and others, most stores and services may be closed or operate on a reduced schedule. On certain days, for example, May 4th (Remembrance Day), stores close earlier.

In the Netherlands, there are many local as well as international brands covering various sectors — from fashion and food products to electronics and retail.

Local brands

Philips — This is one of the largest and most recognizable brands in the Netherlands, specializing in electronics, home appliances, and medical equipment. The company is known for its innovations in healthcare and consumer electronics.

 

Heineken — A globally renowned beer brand originating from the Netherlands. It holds a leading position in the global beer market and is exported to more than 170 countries.

The Albert Heijn supermarket chain is the largest food retailer in the Netherlands. This brand offers a wide range of food products and essentials, often under its private labels.

G-Star RAW is a Dutch fashion brand specializing in denim products and streetwear. The brand is known for its innovations and use of eco-friendly materials.

Royal Dutch Shell is one of the largest oil and gas companies in the world, also operating from the Netherlands. The brand is represented in most countries around the world and is known for its gas stations and energy solutions.

International brands represented in the Netherlands

Zara: the Spanish fashion brand has numerous stores throughout the Netherlands.

IKEA: the Swedish furniture and home goods giant, IKEA, has an extensive network of stores in the Netherlands.

Apple: the American technology company has its own stores and service centers in major cities in the Netherlands, offering a full range of products, from smartphones to laptops.

H&M: the Swedish clothing brand H&M is present in most major Dutch cities.

Amazon: Although Amazon recently opened a full-fledged platform in the Netherlands, the company has already gained popularity among local consumers thanks to a wide range of products and fast delivery.

Etiquette and shopping culture in the Netherlands have their own characteristics, which may differ from what immigrants from other countries are used to.

Politeness and Respect

In the Netherlands, shoppers and sellers usually exchange greetings when entering the store and before starting service. A simple "hallo" or "goedemorgen" (good morning) helps create a pleasant atmosphere. Politeness and respect are important elements of interaction.

Self-service

Many stores in the Netherlands operate on a self-service basis. Shoppers take products from the shelves themselves and pay for them at the checkout. Supermarkets often have self-checkout stations where customers can scan and pay for items without the help of a cashier.

Clarity and Directness

Dutch people are known for their directness, which is also evident in shopping. If you have questions about a product or service, expect a clear and direct answer. It is also expected that customers will express their needs and expectations clearly.

Economy and Practicality

Dutch people value thrift and a rational approach to shopping. This is reflected in their preference for discounts and promotions, which are often offered in supermarkets and other stores. Various loyalty programs and discount cards are also popular.

Local Markets

Local markets, such as farmers', flower, and flea markets, play an important role in the shopping culture. Here customers can find fresh produce, flowers, antiques, and other goods. Interaction with market sellers is often more personal, and discussing the quality and origin of goods is common.

Discounts and Product Returns

In the Netherlands, it is customary that discounts are not negotiated, except for large purchases such as furniture or electronics. A key part of the shopping culture is the right to return items. Stores usually offer returns or exchanges within a certain period, but the terms may vary, so it is always worth clarifying them in advance.

Environmental Care

Sustainability is an important aspect of shopping culture in the Netherlands. Many shoppers are keen that products are eco-friendly and sustainable. Supermarkets often offer biodegradable bags and products labeled "fair trade" and "bio."

In the Netherlands, as in other European countries, there are specific sale periods that attract shoppers with big discounts and great offers.

Winter Sales

Winter sales start after Christmas, usually at the end of December and continue until the end of January. During this time, many stores offer significant discounts on clothing, footwear, accessories, and other goods as retailers aim to make space for new collections.

Summer Sales

Summer sales start in June and last until the end of July. This is the time when stores reduce prices on summer clothing collections and accessories. Summer sales also provide an excellent opportunity to purchase quality items at reduced prices before the start of a new season.

Black Friday

Black Friday is becoming increasingly popular in the Netherlands. It takes place on the last Friday of November and is accompanied by significant discounts in many stores. During this event, you can find large discounts not only on clothing but also on electronics, home appliances, and other goods. Often, the discounts continue the next day—on the so-called "Cyber Monday," when many online stores offer discounts.

Sales on King's Day

King's Day, which is celebrated on April 27th, is a national holiday but is also known for its flea markets throughout the country. On this day, many people sell their old items on the streets, and stores often hold special promotions and discounts.

Mid-season Sales

Apart from the main sales seasons, mid-season sales are also held in the Netherlands halfway through the seasons. These sales offer discounts on leftover collections and attract buyers with great deals before the start of new seasons.

VAT-Free Weekends

Some stores organize special promotions where a discount equivalent to the VAT (21%) is offered on certain products. This makes the purchase more advantageous, and such promotions often occur before major holidays or during mid-season sales.

The household waste disposal and recycling system in the Netherlands is well-organized and focused on maximizing the reduction of waste sent to landfills. The country actively promotes recycling and separate waste collection, making it a leader in ecology and sustainable development in Europe.

Separate Waste Collection

   In the Netherlands, great attention is paid to separate waste collection. Separate containers are designated for different types of waste:

   -   Yellow or orange container – for plastic, metal, and cardboard packaging (PMD) (plastic bottles, aluminum cans, and cardboard boxes).

   -  Blue container – for paper and cardboard (newspapers, magazines, cardboard packaging materials).

   -  White or gray container – for glass (bottles and jars, sometimes separate containers may be set up for white and colored glass).

   -  Green container – for organic waste (vegetable and fruit scraps, garden waste).

   -  Black or gray container – for residual waste (anything that cannot be recycled into other categories goes into residual waste, but the volume of such waste is minimized).

 

Collection and Recycling Centers: Each municipality has drop-off points for bulky waste, hazardous materials, such as batteries and electronics, as well as specialized recycling centers. For example, in Amsterdam, there are several such points where you can drop off old furniture, appliances, or construction materials.

Fines and Incentives: Some municipalities have implemented waste collection fee systems based on the weight or volume of waste that cannot be recycled. This encourages people to reduce the amount of non-recyclable waste. Discounts or bonuses may also be provided for participating in recycling programs.

Fines for Improper Waste Sorting

In the Netherlands, fines may be applied for improper waste sorting, especially if it is a repeat violation. The system of fines and control may vary depending on the municipality, but in general, municipal authorities take waste disposal and recycling very seriously.

Warnings: Upon first discovering improper sorting, you may receive a warning from the municipality or the waste collection company.

Fines: In the case of repeated violations, fines may be imposed. The amount of the fine varies but usually ranges from 90 to 200 euros, depending on the municipality and the type of violation.

Refusal of Waste Collection: If waste is not properly sorted, the waste collection company may refuse to collect it. In this case, the waste will remain with you until it is properly sorted.

Municipalities actively monitor compliance with the rules, as improper sorting can significantly complicate recycling and increase the amount of waste sent to landfills.