Holland Casino Rejects Union Demands Over Tax Hike Impact

Holland Casino has firmly rejected a majority of the proposals submitted by trade union De Unie during the first round of collective labour agreement (CLA) negotiations. The casino operator pointed to the ongoing financial uncertainty stemming from recent gambling tax hikes as the primary reason for its position. De Unie, however, has maintained its demand for a comprehensive wage increase and better working conditions, positioning the disagreement as a pivotal issue for the future of its workforce.

Financial Struggles and Tax Hikes Lead to Difficult Negotiations

The casino operator's stance on wage increases, benefits, and working conditions was significantly influenced by the recent gambling tax hikes. In 2025, the gambling tax rate will increase from 30.5% to 34.2%, with a potential further rise to 37.8% in 2026. These hikes have placed considerable financial strain on Holland Casino, influencing its proposal for a limited one-year CLA.

Under the terms of the proposed agreement, Holland Casino has offered a conditional wage increase, beginning with a 1% raise in January 2026. However, if the anticipated second tax hike does not materialize, this raise could increase to 2.5%. The company has emphasized that the financial uncertainty surrounding these tax increases limits its ability to offer larger raises or more comprehensive benefits at this time.

Union's Response: A Call for Fairer Wage Increases and Better Conditions

De Unie, which represents workers at Holland Casino, has been vocal about its stance on the negotiations. The union's proposals included a general wage increase that would better reflect the rising cost of living, the designation of 5 May as a company holiday, the payment of union dues by the casino, and improved provisions for informal care and remote work arrangements. Despite these calls for more substantial benefits, Holland Casino rejected most of these points, citing "material uncertainty" related to the tax increases.

De Unie has strongly opposed the notion of workers bearing the financial burden of government-imposed tax hikes, arguing that employees should not suffer financially due to rising taxation. The union remains steadfast in its position for full wage increases, fearing that Holland Casino's offer does not provide adequate support for workers in the long term. According to union representatives, the company’s proposal fails to address the growing financial strain that employees are facing due to inflation and the increased cost of living.

Looking Ahead: Future Negotiations and Uncertainty

The upcoming negotiations are set to continue with a session scheduled for 19 May, followed by additional discussions in June. Both parties have acknowledged that reaching a comprehensive agreement in the short term is unlikely, given the complex financial dynamics and differing priorities. While Holland Casino is attempting to balance its financial obligations with employee demands, the union is pushing for a deal that prioritizes long-term wage growth and job security.

Additionally, Holland Casino plans to focus on its "Occupation & Flexibility" project throughout the year, which is expected to shape future work conditions and may affect ongoing negotiations. This initiative aims to create a more flexible and accommodating work environment, but it remains unclear how it will be received by the workforce. De Unie is pushing for more long-term assurances, especially regarding salary growth, as the union presses for a more robust agreement.

In the coming weeks, both sides will likely continue to navigate the tension between financial constraints and the desire for better employee compensation and conditions. However, De Unie is clear in its message: workers should not bear the burden of governmental fiscal policies.

Source:

Holland Casino rejects union proposals in early CLA negotiations, gamblinginsider.com, May 12, 2025.