Seven out of 10 Dutch households have taken steps to cut their spending over the past year, according to family spending institute Nibud.

‘Savings are being made everywhere and families are using all sorts of different strategies,’ the institute said. Half of the households polled said they did not feel they could cut their spending any more than they have already done.

This is the fourth year in a row that Dutch households have had less to spend, Nibud pointed out.

Average income

Average income families are feeling the pinch as well, Nibud said. Six out of 10 households with an income above the average €3,200 a month have also reduced their spending.

Major purchases such as new televisions and computers are first to go, followed by eating out, holidays, magazines and newspaper subscriptions. Nearly one in 10 families got rid of a car because it was too expensive to run.

At the same time, 85% say they try to buy special offers and discounted products.