13,000 signatures against eliminating Dutch employee discounts

The Dutch government wants to abolish the employee discount, but is facing opposition: a petition against the abolition has gathered nearly 13,000 signatures. A coalition of 25 industry and sector organizations is warning of the impact on employers and employees, including those in the retail sector.

Alternative faces objections

The government plans to end the tax scheme in 2027 that entitles employees to a 20% discount on industry-specific products, up to a maximum of 500 euros per year. Employers pay for this employee discount themselves, and the government therefore wants to incorporate the discount into the “free space” of the work-related expenses scheme.