In a sign of cooling consumer activity, retail sales growth in the Netherlands slowed in October, with an increase of 3.8% year-over-year, according to the latest data released on December 1, 2025. This marks a significant decline from the previous month, where sales had grown by 5.1% in September compared to the same period in the previous year.
The slowdown in Dutch retail sales growth in October represents a shift in consumer spending patterns as the economy adjusts to post-pandemic dynamics. Analysts suggest that rising inflationary pressures, coupled with uncertainties in the global economic environment, may have influenced consumer behavior, as shoppers become more cautious in their spending.
This year's figures contrast starkly with the robust retail environment that characterized much of 2025, raising questions about the sustainability of consumer-driven economic growth in the Netherlands. As the holiday season approaches, retailers will be watching closely to see if the trend will continue into the final months of the year.
