The Dutch construction industry is booming. Construction, renovation, and sustainability improvements are underway everywhere. Yet, there's one major problem: the shortage of skilled workers. Finding the right people remains a challenge, especially in the finishing sector, with professions like plastering, painting, and tiling.

The EIB report "Construction Labor Market Trends 2025–2029" shows that employment in the construction sector has been growing for twelve consecutive years. But despite this growth, the shortage is worsening. For companies, this means plenty of work, but not enough workers. And that makes finding qualified construction workers more urgent than ever.

Fewer self-employed, more permanent and flexible employees

In 2025, total employment in construction grew by about 1%, but the number of self-employed people actually fell - For the first time in years. According to the EIB, there are approximately 4,000 fewer self-employed professionals active than a year earlier. This is due to stricter enforcement of the DBA Act, which has led many self-employed individuals to switch to salaried employment.

This means a clear shift in terms of phasing out : more people in paid employment and a growing role for flexible staff.

Vacancies in finishing remain open

The figures speak for themselves: in 2025, there were an average of 80 open vacancies per 1,000 workers in construction, the highest vacancy rate of all sectors in the Netherlands. Positions that contribute to the sustainability of buildings, such as insulation installers, painters, fitters, and glaziers, are particularly difficult to fill.

In the finishing sector, there's an additional challenge. Young people are increasingly opting for vocational training. The number of vocational students in professions like plastering, tiling, and bricklaying has been declining for several years in a row. As a result, fewer new skilled workers are joining the workforce, while the workload is increasing.

Training and recruitment: where is the new generation?

Although the total intake from vocational education (MBO) increased slightly in 2024, that growth was primarily in installation and technical programs. The traditional construction subjects, essential for finishing, lost students. And this is precisely where the future of construction lies: in maintenance, renovation, and sustainability.

That's why it's important for young people to experience again how rewarding and diverse construction work is. A job in finishing offers security, variety, and the opportunity to literally build something tangible.

The gray wave rolls by

Another challenge is the aging population. Every year, more than 10,000 people retire or become incapacitated for work. Many of them work in executive roles – precisely where the shortage is greatest.

In the coming years, the sector is estimated to need 75,000 new workers to keep up with the workload. More than two-thirds of these will be needed to replace departing employees. Without a structured approach to recruitment, training, and retention, the pressure on companies in the construction industry will continue to increase.

Fewer foreign professionals

For years, shortages were partially met by foreign professionals. But since 2024, their numbers have been declining slightly. Stricter regulations regarding bogus self-employment are making the Netherlands less attractive to foreign freelancers.

Construction companies are therefore focusing more on their own training, long-term collaboration with assembly partners and smart prefabrication to increase capacity.

Sickness absence puts pressure on small businesses

Sickness absence in the construction sector is rising again: an average of 5.6% in the operational professions. Smaller companies, in particular, are struggling with this, as the costs are immediately felt. Sickness insurance, replacements, and lost production are putting additional pressure on margins.

That's why focusing on safety, vitality, and sustainable employability is more important than ever. Prevention pays off – for both employees and employers.

The future of construction starts today

The wave of sustainability initiatives, new work concepts, and the repurposing of buildings will keep the demand for high-quality finishing high in the coming years. The challenge lies not in the work itself, but in organizing the people, resources, and processes. With strong supply chain partners, a focus on inflow, and attractive training and work programs, we keep projects moving forward and ensure enjoyment of the profession.

System Flex

System Flex is a recognized finishing company and project partner that has been creating spaces with system walls and ceiling systems from its own production for decades. Thanks to short communication lines, specialist knowledge of sound insulation and fire resistance, and an integrated approach (design, production, installation), projects are delivered quickly and to a high standard.

For clients, this means a single point of contact, predictable planning, and measurable quality – from design to delivery. And for professionals: working on exciting projects within a family business with a strong focus on craftsmanship and innovation.

Want to learn more about our work? Get in touch.