Number of Dutch flower and plant shops declines for fourth year straight

The Netherlands has recorded a decline in the number of flower and plant shops for the fourth consecutive year, according to data from the Chamber of Commerce (KVK) analyzed by ANP for Valentine’s Day. At the start of 2026, there were approximately 6,400 retail outlets for flowers, plants, seeds, and garden supplies, down from just over 6,500 in 2025.

The statistics cover garden centers and florists. Since 2022, the number of these stores has fallen by more than 70 per year. In earlier years, the sector had seen annual growth, reaching a peak of more than 6,700 stores in 2022.

The decline is not uniform across all provinces. Gelderland and Groningen saw a slight increase, gaining a combined total of 12 stores. Utrecht experienced the sharpest drop, losing 27 shops compared with 2025, a decrease of 6.1 percent.

Patricia Bloedjes, chair of the VBW trade association for flower retailers and co-owner of two flower shops in Noord-Holland, expressed cautious optimism despite the overall decrease. “Entrepreneurs in our sector face the same challenges as retailers in other sectors, such as staff shortages, an aging workforce, lack of succession, and competition from online sales,” she said.

Bloedjes added, “I am convinced that flower and plant shop owners who keep up with the times and embrace market changes have a bright future. As long as they continue to prioritize craftsmanship and service and distinguish themselves from the competition, they can succeed.”