Saturday, March 29, 2025
In the heart of Amsterdam, small business owners are being forced to close their doors as soaring rents push out independent retailers, sparking fears the city’s historic charm could be lost forever.
Among those affected is ‘t Zonnetje, a beloved tea and coffee shop operating since 1642, which will close its doors in less than two months due to a dramatic rent hike. Owner Marie-Louise Velder, 76, says she has no choice but to shut down after rent demands nearly doubled, despite a recent legal reduction.
Velder, who took over the shop 26 years ago, recalled paying 975 guilders (around €440) per month in 1999. Now, her rent is set to rise to €4,500 monthly, an increase she calls devastating. Speaking over a cup of Ceylon tea in the shop’s fragrant interior, Velder said: “It makes me sick. Traditional shops are all dying.”
Since news of the closure broke, the community response has been overwhelming, with many customers expressing their sadness and frustration at the loss of yet another independent business.
Local residents and business owners are increasingly worried that independent shops are being replaced by chain stores and tourist-focused outlets. Johannes Wilhelm, a 63-year-old local customer, lamented the growing number of stores catering solely to visitors. “Tourists are welcome, but there should be space for traditional shops too,” he said.
Analysts report that retail rents across the Netherlands’ prime shopping streets have steadily climbed, making it increasingly difficult for sole traders to survive. Conservationists warn that higher rents often pave the way for large, standardized retailers to move in once independent shops are priced out.
‘t Zonnetje’s history reflects Amsterdam’s evolution. Originally selling herbs, coal, and water, it later shifted to offering exotic goods like tea and coffee as the Dutch empire expanded. Velder, passionate about her craft, spent years perfecting the shop’s signature Earl Grey blend, prepared in the basement with a traditional method.
However, despite its rich history, conservationists admit it’s challenging to protect businesses themselves — they can preserve old buildings, but not the original function or spirit of independent shops.
“If you lose unique local shops, the city’s authenticity fades,” said Karel Loeff, director of a preservation organization. He warned that cities risk becoming bland and unappealing when small businesses are driven out.
Amsterdam authorities have tried to curb the spread of tourist-only shops, banning certain types of stores from opening in the historic city center since 2017. However, urban experts note that the impact varies significantly by neighborhood, and tourism isn’t the only pressure — online shopping and shifting consumer habits also play major roles.
Urban geographer Iris Hagemans emphasized that government intervention is complicated. While there is broad public support for preserving traditional shops, actual consumer behavior often favors more convenient options. She supports protecting essential services like access to fresh food and healthcare but cautions against governments dictating retail trends.
“The retail landscape must stay dynamic and reflect true market demands. People ultimately vote with their wallets,” she said.
As Amsterdam prepares to celebrate its 750th anniversary in October, banners promoting the milestone are already going up. However, for Velder and her historic tea shop, the festivities come too late.
“There may be plans to support small businesses this year, but for me, it’s already over,” she said, her voice tinged with sadness.
