paroolSep 8, 2026, 01:01

New York has Apollo Bagels, Amsterdam has Wakuli and Pizza Beppe: how small chains are making neighborhoods look more and more alike

Neighborhoods in cities like New York and Amsterdam are becoming increasingly similar due to the growth of small-scale, boutique retail chains. These former independent shops are expanding across popular urban areas, creating a uniform commercial landscape that contrasts with traditional global brands.

Business Culture Lifestyle

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

More cultural funding to the regions? Halsema warns: "The labor market is in Amsterdam"

Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema has warned the Dutch government against diverting cultural subsidies away from the capital, citing the risk of damaging the city's significant creative labor market. She also defended the autonomy of the arts sector, emphasizing that cultural institutions must remain free from political pressure and secure for all visitors.

Ron Blaauw closes Michelin-starred restaurant in Amsterdam-Zuid: 'Times have changed'

Chef Ron Blaauw is closing his Michelin-starred Ron Gastrobar in Amsterdam-Zuid after fourteen years to pursue a new, more flexible dining concept. The restaurant will cease operations in February, with a new project to be announced in December, while his other business locations across the Netherlands will remain open.

100 years of Hema: Amsterdammers share memories of smoked sausage, loose cookies and secret snacking on the job

As the Dutch retail chain Hema celebrates its 100th anniversary, residents of Amsterdam are sharing nostalgic stories about the store's iconic products and their personal history with the brand. Since its founding in 1926, the company has become a cultural staple, with customers reflecting on childhood memories of snacks, toys, and long-lasting household items.

The fourth generation of the family now works at Febo: they also don't want frozen food or a reality show

The fourth generation of the founding family has joined the Dutch snack chain Febo, emphasizing their commitment to serving fresh rather than frozen products. Siblings Steff and Femke de Borst are carrying on the legacy started by their great-grandfather in 1941.

‘Frozen croquettes? Grandpa is turning in his grave’ – This is the family behind Febo

Febo continues its 85-year-old tradition of producing only fresh snacks at its Amsterdam-Noord factory, rejecting the use of frozen items. The fourth generation of the founding family, Steff and Femke de Borst, are now actively involved in maintaining the company's commitment to quality.