Dutch major casinos in trouble after tax increase
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7 Feb 2025 •
Reading time: 3 minutes The gambling sector in the Netherlands is going through a tough period, marked by major reorganisations and economic challenges for several operators, including Holland Casino, Fair Play, and Jack’s Casino. These companies are facing site closures, financial losses due to the pandemic, and increased tax pressure.
Holland Casino plans reorganization
Holland Casino, the state-owned gambling operator in the Netherlands, has confirmed a significant reorganisation of its headquarters. This decision follows months of speculation. The union De Unie stated it had been informed of this measure, which is expected to lead to layoffs, although the exact number has not yet been specified. Petra de Ruiter, the company’s CEO, had previously expressed her intention to reduce headquarters costs by 20%.
Holland Casino is not the first Dutch gambling company to face financial difficulties. Both Fair Play and Jack’s Casino are dealing with substantial debts.
Economic context and strategic changes
This reorganisation is part of a challenging economic context for Holland Casino. In October 2024, the company announced the closure of its historic Zandvoort branch, opened in 1976, due to changes in visitor behaviour and deteriorating market conditions. CEO Petra de Ruiter stated that the closure was “essential” to ensure a sustainable future for the company.
Furthermore, in December 2024, the Dutch government announced a review of its gambling policy, considering an increased opening of the land-based market to competition and a reassessment of the state’s role in the ownership of Holland Casino. The Secretary of State for Justice and Security, Frank Struycken, indicated that a vision for the future of gambling policy would be presented by March 2025.
Fair Play and Jack’s Casino also hit by the crisis
The difficulties are not limited to Holland Casino. Fair Play and Jack’s Casino, two other major players in the Dutch gambling sector, are also facing a difficult economic period.
The COVID-19 pandemic had devastating consequences for these operators. Prolonged closures and health restrictions led to a drastic drop in visitor numbers. Several establishments had to close temporarily, while others experienced significant financial losses.
Jack’s Casino reported a nearly 30% drop in turnover between 2020 and 2022. Meanwhile, Fair Play had to renegotiate its debts to avoid imminent bankruptcy.
In addition to the consequences of the health crisis, the introduction of new taxes on gambling has added further pressure on these companies. In 2023, the Dutch government increased the tax on gambling revenues from 29% to 31%, a measure aimed at strengthening public funds. This tax hike has complicated the financial situation for operators.
A context of regulatory transformation
The challenges faced by land-based casinos are amplified by strict regulations on gambling advertising. Since July 2023, an outright ban on non targeted advertising for online gambling has been in effect in the Netherlands. This measure is designed to protect young people and vulnerable individuals.
This new reality forces operators to completely rethink their marketing strategies. While some have opted for a more discreet presence on social media, others are struggling to find effective alternatives to reach their target audience.
The Dutch government has announced a review of its gambling policy. Secretary of State Frank Struycken has promised a new vision for the sector by March 2025.