Enforcement and Sanctions for Non-Compliance with Minimum Wage Rules in Tilburg

The Inspectie SZW strictly enforces minimum wage in Tilburg, including end-of-year payments in sectors such as retail and logistics. Violations lead to fines of €2,000 to €12,000 per employee, doubled in case of recidivism (Obstruction of Performance Act). Priority for vulnerable Tilburg branches such as cleaning at Tilburg University and agriculture in the surrounding Reusel-De Mierden. In 2023, more than 800 fines were imposed in North Brabant, with a focus on the textile and distribution sector around the Spoorzone. Companies in Tilburg first receive a warning via regional inspections, followed by on-the-spot checks. Employees can report anonymously via the national reporting line or locally through trade unions. The Public Prosecutor's Office in Den Bosch pursues criminal prosecution in the region in cases of intent. Administrative proceedings take an average of 6 months; appeal to the CBb. Example: a Tilburg supermarket chain in the Westermarkt paid €450,000 after underpaying 40 employees. Advice: conduct internal audits at companies along the Ringweg and train payroll administrators. Digitalization via eHerkenning simplifies reporting for SMEs in the Piushaven. For international employees from the Polish community in Tilburg, rules from the Act to Combat False Self-Employment apply. UWV Tilburg claims back wages within 5 years. Trends: AI tools for wage checks by SZW in Brabant. Entrepreneurs: invest in compliance to prevent reputational damage in the growing city. Legal assistance via FNV Vakbondhuis Tilburg or VNO-NCW Midden-Brabant recommended. (218 words)