The unpopular measure has been necessary due to the government’s recent tax hikes, which could significantly hinder Holland Casino’s competitiveness against illegal operators
In a troubling development for the Netherlands’ gambling sector, the trade union De Unie has issued a stern warning regarding impending redundancies within the head office of state-owned gambling operator Holland Casino. This anticipated restructuring comes after increasing financial pressures, including increased gambling taxes and tightening regulations, leading to severe operational challenges.
Holland Casino Employees Face Rising Challenges
Although Holland Casino did not disclose precise figures, the operator confirmed that the head office restructuring would result in compulsory redundancies. Unie has insisted on a voluntary departure scheme and a job creation initiative to mitigate the impact on affected workers. Although Holland Casino has agreed to the latter, it has refused to introduce the voluntary departure scheme.
The company’s Work Council is considering the company’s advisory request for the restructuring. Aside from the redundancies, employees are also concerned regarding Holland Casino’s planned operating hour extension, to be implemented in mid-2025. Although the Work Council agreed to this measure, it imposed stringent conditions to guarantee the health and safety of employees.
Workers are worried about fatigue and dangerous situations that may result from night shifts and the possible effects on their long-term health. Studies have found night shifts to correlate with an increased risk of mental health issues and metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. Unie has called on Holland Casino to pay close attention to these effects and examine their implications for employee health and organizational efficiency.
Increased Tax Rates Will Have Wide-Ranging Implications
The reorganization follows hot on the heels of a recent nationwide gambling tax increase to 34.2% from 30.5%, with a further increase to 37.8% set to take place in January 2026. Holland Casino, joined by unions FNV and Unie, launched a united campaign calling for the Dutch government to rethink these controversial tax hikes.
Unie representatives have been lobbying members of parliament, arguing that the suggested tax increases will destabilize the gambling sector. These concerns have been echoed by experts, who caution that higher taxation would drive consumers to unregulated websites.
These black market platforms also lack adequate consumer protections, potentially leading to an increase in problem gambling.
Despite repeated warnings that such measures could result in a less secure and regulated market, Dutch policymakers have shown little inclination to reverse the tax increases. The resulting uncertainty has placed Holland Casino and industry stakeholders in a difficult situation as they attempt to maintain stability and avoid additional job losses.
