Butcher surprised by drop in meat consumption: 'Customers keep coming'
Meat consumption in the Netherlands has dropped by 12 percent over the last ten years, driven largely by the rising cost of beef and pork. Despite this national decline, specialized butcher shops remain stable by diversifying their product assortments and catering to customers who prioritize quality.
Research by Wageningen University and Research indicates that meat consumption in the Netherlands has fallen by approximately 12 percent over the past decade, with 33.8 kilograms consumed per person in 2025. While beef and pork consumption has declined significantly due to rising costs, poultry consumption remains stable at around 11 kilograms per person. Despite this national trend, many local butchers report stable or even increasing sales by diversifying their product offerings to include items like cheese and ready-made meals.
Industry experts note that while the total number of butcher shops in the country is decreasing, this is largely attributed to aging owners rather than financial instability. Meanwhile, individual shop owners across the country report varying experiences, with some seeing continued demand from customers seeking high-quality, luxury meat products. Although some consumers may be shopping across the border, others are actually attracting international customers, and the local specialized market continues to maintain its presence by catering to conscious shoppers.
Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.
