Large retail chains in the Netherlands are increasingly a reflection of society. According to a survey by the Dutch news platform NOS, they are increasingly employing employees who do not (yet) fully understand the Dutch language. Diversity and the scarcity in the labor market come together.
Zeeman and Hema are among the chains where English is increasingly heard. Until last year, Dutch was a requirement for the job advertisement at Zeeman. This year that has changed. “Because the job market is so tight, Dutch is no longer mandatory. That gives us a little more leeway, we can place people a little easier,” a spokesman told NOS.
Hema is also aware of the shortage on the labor market and is therefore employing more English-speaking employees. “Our store managers pay attention to a balance between Dutch and English-speaking employees. In the cities there are more English-speaking customers, and therefore more English-speaking employees. It is important that our store staff reflects society,” Hema told NOS .
Zeeman adds that English-speaking employees are only employed if the branch manager can also speak English. “He has to be able to convey processes and give instructions, also because of safety.”
This translated and edited post previously appeared on FashionUnited.nl.