The Dutch Labour Inspectorate has imposed fines totaling over €300,000 on the Saints and Stars gym chain after uncovering serious violations of employment regulations. Inspectors found that several outlets failed to record working hours properly, withheld holiday pay and neglected to issue formal employment contracts.
Key Breaches Identified
- Unregistered overtime: Staff routinely logged extra shifts without proper compensation or time‐tracking.
- Missing contracts: Multiple trainers and receptionists worked without signed agreements, leaving their rights unprotected.
- Unpaid holiday allowance: Holiday entitlements were neither accrued accurately nor paid out when employees took leave.
The fines include administrative penalties for each separate infringement discovered across the chain’s locations in Amsterdam and Utrecht. Labour Inspectorate spokesperson Marieke van Dijk emphasized that accurate time recording and transparent payment practices are non‐negotiable under Dutch law.
Chain’s Response and Next Steps
Representatives for Saints and Stars expressed surprise at the scale of the penalties but pledged full cooperation. “We respect the Inspectorate’s findings and are already implementing corrective measures,” said CEO Mark van Leeuwen. The gym chain has hired an external HR consultant to overhaul its payroll and contract systems.
Despite the swift remedial actions, Saints and Stars intends to appeal parts of the decision, arguing that some fines are disproportionate given the chain’s prompt willingness to rectify the issues. A formal appeal will be lodged with the Amsterdam District Court in the coming weeks.
Broader Context
This case marks one of the largest fines imposed on a fitness operator in the Netherlands. Labour Minister Karien van Gennip has signaled tougher enforcement ahead for sectors where irregular work practices have been identified. “We will continue to target businesses that treat employment rules as optional,” she stated. Workers’ advocates hope this action will serve as a warning to other companies to prioritize legal compliance and worker welfare.
