Workforce Woes: Two-Thirds of Dutch Companies Battle Staff Shortages with Innovation and Incentives

A staggering two-thirds of Dutch companies are currently grappling with staff shortages, prompting a nationwide corporate shift towards automation, enhanced working conditions, and even international recruitment, according to the latest data from the national statistics agency CBS.
The problem spans across company sizes, but larger businesses are feeling the crunch most—with more than 70% reporting shortages—compared to 67% of medium-sized firms and 61% of small businesses. These larger entities are also leading the response, with 30% investing in automation, compared to 25% of medium-sized companies and just 19% of small businesses.
Meanwhile, small businesses—lacking the resources to invest heavily—are more likely to limit production to cope, with nearly 20% adjusting output to match available manpower. Across the board, 29% of businesses have increased pay or improved conditions to lure talent, and 10% are turning to international labor markets to fill the gap.
The construction sector is hardest hit, with over 80% of companies facing staffing difficulties, while the culture, sport, and recreation industries reported the least trouble, at 55%. Despite the challenges, the data reveals a resilient private sector that’s adapting fast, leaning into tech and creative solutions to future-proof operations.
The labor shortage may be a crisis—but it’s also a catalyst for transformation.