More hairdressers in the Netherlands now choose to work as self‑employed entrepreneurs. ANP analysed Chamber of Commerce (KVK) data and found more than 27,000 self‑employed hairdressers registered on 1 April. This is a 17 percent increase compared with five years ago. At the moment, over three‑quarters of all registered hairdressers work independently.
During the same period, the number of hairdressing businesses fell by about 5 percent. On 1 April, slightly more than 7,700 salons — including SMEs, large companies, and part‑time operations — appeared in the KVK register.
According to Marga Patijn, chair of FNV Mooi, many hairdressers struggle to match their workload with the pay they receive. “The negotiations regarding the salary increase were still difficult last time,” she says. “But we are currently in talks with trade association ANKO, among others, regarding employment conditions.”
Patijn also sees work–life balance as a major factor. “Hairdressers are often young women, at an age where children might be on the way. If employers cannot offer enough flexibility, working independently becomes more attractive.”
She does not expect traditional salons to disappear. “Entrepreneurs who listen to their staff and dare to adapt will always exist.” She adds that, despite the appeal of self‑employment, working for an employer offers “a safer environment for the future”.
@ANP | News Brainport
