Several bakers throughout the Netherlands are in the dark this weekend. They turn off the lights, because they protest against the energy compensation of the cabinet. According to the sector, the compensation is not sufficient.
In addition to turning off the lights, bakers also hang posters in front of their windows. In this way, the bakers hope to gain a greater understanding of the situation they are in.
Mulder Bakery, with branches in Hoogeveen and Beilen, is participating in the promotion. Margo Hooijer: “We are not yet bothered by the high energy prices, but that is because we anticipate the increased prices. We handle our ovens with care and for some time have made sure that as little light as possible needs to be used. “
Although she is not yet bothered by the high prices, she thinks it is important to take action. “We do it not only for ourselves, but also to show solidarity with the rest of the sector. We are not the only baker in heavy weather,” says Hooijer.
Amir Alsady from Alsady bakery in Assen is also participating in the action. He says he pays between five and six times more for his energy than before. “We cannot pass the prices on to the customer indefinitely. It must remain affordable.”
Despite the lack of lighting, Alsady is not afraid that customers will think the store is closed. “We ensure that there is someone at the door to keep it open for the customer. This employee can also explain the purpose of the promotion, although I assume that most people are aware and understand the promotion. “
With his protest, the baker hopes to achieve support from the government. “We want SMEs to survive. I’m not just doing this for the bakers, but for SMEs in general.”
There are also bakers who consciously choose not to participate in the promotion. They fear that customers will not understand that the bakery is open, causing them to pass the store.
Bakers who turn off the lights often opt for candles as an alternative. With a view to fire safety, there are also a number of bakeries that leave the lighting on. Lighting a shop with candles is not responsible in their eyes. Sometimes they only hang posters in front of the windows, to protest against the policy of the government.