The Netherlands has approximately 2016 coffee bars in 358 and this number is increasing. The coffee bar has become a household name within the Dutch catering industry in a relatively short time.
In recent years, the modern coffee bar has experienced a strong growth in numbers and popularity. Metropolitan areas, shopping malls, airports, student campuses, libraries, highways and other high-traffic points are the most popular for the establishment of new locations. This is apparent from research by Van Spronsen & Partners catering advice.
In 2016, the Netherlands had 1.675 coffee corners. The coffee corner falls under the beverage sector and consists of different business types such as coffee bars, coffee houses and tea houses, but also cafes and coffee shops (soft drugs). The coffee corners have experienced limited growth of 10% to a total of 16 in the past 1.675 years. Within this sector, however, the coffee bars (358) have increased strongly (there are no exact growth figures). The chains are engaged in further growth at various locations. There is growth potential in high-traffic locations, business centers and shop-in-shop options. The consultancy expects that growth will continue for the time being.
Province or State
The top 3 provinces with the highest density of coffee bars are Noord-Holland, Utrecht and Groningen. Noord-Holland is very strongly influenced by Amsterdam in this respect. The top 5 cities in terms of numbers of coffee bars at the beginning of 2016 were Amsterdam (99), Rotterdam (26), Utrecht (23), The Hague (20) and Groningen (12). When we look at the top 5 based on density, Rotterdam and The Hague are pushed out of the list by Maastricht and Zwolle. The average density in the Netherlands is 2,1 coffee bars per 100.000 inhabitants.
Coffee bars have a strong focus on product quality. The commitment of baristas and knowledge of the origin, production and roasting of the coffee bean are important components. The design of the coffee bar is a core element and closely coincides with the logo, decoration, packaging and online appearance. Atmosphere and experience are very important for the relatively young consumer group. The purchase of sweet coffee varieties is popular, whereby relatively little normal coffee is consumed. The coffee bar is popular in combination with shopping and city visits or simply for breakfast or lunch. The locations are also popular as an alternative workplace and meeting point for freelancers, students or home workers. Dutch consumers are becoming more and more accustomed to good coffee in the hospitality industry, on the road and at work. This also further increases the to-go market.
Read the industry booklet 'The Coffee Bar in Pictures' For more information.
