nuOct 30, 2026, 07:21

Heijmans builds fewer houses but earns more from roads and power grids

Heijmans faces a slump in residential property sales due to ongoing market crises but expects higher profits due to significant growth in infrastructure and energy projects. The company has raised its profit margin forecast for 2026 while continuing to secure large-scale government contracts and expanding its modular construction technology.

Dutch construction giant Heijmans reports a decline in new housing sales, with 2,085 homes sold through October compared to 2,313 during the same period last year. The company cites ongoing challenges in the housing market, including grid congestion, complex permit processes, and high mortgage rates, and expects these pressures to persist into 2027. Despite these housing market difficulties, Heijmans has raised its profit margin forecast for 2026 to 7.5 percent, projecting steady revenues of approximately 3.1 billion euros. This growth is driven by a strong performance in infrastructure and energy projects, bolstered by increased government funding for roads, bridges, and waterworks.

Significant contract wins, including waterway maintenance in Eastern Netherlands and new high-voltage station projects, have pushed the company's order backlog to 4 billion euros. To optimize efficiency, the firm is also expanding its modular construction capabilities with a new factory in Dordrecht. CEO Ton Hillen noted that the company remains selective, focusing strictly on projects that align with its operational strengths and capacity.

Economy Business Amsterdam Netherlands

Read original ↗

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

Magnum reports record sales due to tropical summer, pistachio ice cream proves a golden move

Magnum reported a 12.1 percent global revenue increase to 2.5 billion euros, fueled by an exceptionally long summer and the successful launch of its pistachio-flavored ice cream. The company has consequently raised its 2026 growth forecast to 5.5 percent, supported by strong performance in Europe and the United States.

Number of social housing units in Amsterdam region grew by over 4,000 last year – but waiting times remain long

The social housing stock in the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area increased by over 4,000 units in 2025 due to a rise in new construction projects. Despite this growth, waiting lists for rental properties remain long and are not expected to decrease significantly in the near future.

If Amsterdammers get rid of their cars because they are too expensive, it doesn't bring the municipality any money either

Amsterdam plans to raise parking permit fees for residents to mitigate municipal budget deficits caused by inflation and rising costs. Critics argue the policy lacks a solid financial model and could negatively impact residents who rely on their vehicles for essential travel outside the city.

Only stroopwafels and coffee remain free on KLM flights: "Bring your own nuts"

KLM has discontinued its complimentary cheese sandwiches on European flights to reduce food waste and support a new financial recovery plan. Passengers can now purchase a wider variety of snacks and meals, though basic items like coffee and stroopwafels remain free of charge.

Booking may require employees to work from the office two days a week

The Amsterdam District Court has ruled that Booking.com can legally require its employees to work from the office for 40 percent of their weekly hours. The court accepted the company's argument that regular in-person contact is essential for fostering a strong corporate culture and team collaboration.