‘Where People Come Together & Creativity Comes To Life’: Q’s With Arnaud Hordijk, Head Of Entertainment & Sports, Rotterdam Ahoy

Rotterdam Ahoy has been the home for international and Dutch artists, sports professionals, politicians, celebrities, as well as the people of Rotterdam for more than 50 years.

If there’s a trend to be made out in the European touring circuit, the building’s head of entertainment and sports, Arnaud Hordijk, is the man to ask about it. Which is exactly what Pollstar did for its annual Dutch Focus 2025.

Keeping It Lowlands: Annual Dutch Focus 2025

Pollstar: How would you describe the state of business at Rotterdam Ahoy at year’s end, and what’s your outlook for 2026 (and beyond)?
Arnaud Hordijk: At the end of this year, we can conclude that the demand for live entertainment and sports events remains consistently strong. We see a healthy mix of returning flagship events, new concepts, and several international productions finding their way to Ahoy.

For 2026 and beyond, we are optimistic: we do not necessarily expect growth in numbers, but live entertainment, sports, and business events, supported by our multifunctional venue and strong position in the international market, will ensure a diverse and strong programming lineup.

What are the most important questions, the operator of a state-of-the art entertainment complex needs to as him or herself in this day and age?
How do we create a safe and future-proof environment for visitors, productions/organizers, and employees? How can we improve the customer journey and elevate it in a dynamic environment where technological developments evolve rapidly and various initiatives emerge within the sector?

Any trends that stand out to you, like certain genres becoming more popular than expected; increasing demand for domestic talent; more family shows/exhibitions? more mini-residencies; etc. or a little bit of everything?
We see a great deal of diversity in both supply and demand. Family shows are growing in popularity, for both younger and older children. Additionally, there is a strong increase in demand for domestic talent. Dutch artists are drawing larger crowds than ever and are finding their way to our halls and those of our peers.

Nostalgia continues to work, reconnecting with the past and reliving memories. TikTok also has an impact, broadening the mix of target audiences.

Any slowing down of touring activity noticeable?
Yes and no: we see lead times shortening, but for some projects they are actually being extended. Behind the scenes, there is certainly more postponement and rescheduling.

What challenges remain operating a popular venue like the Ahoy, and where do you see opportunities?
Rising costs versus price elasticity, what is the ceiling and what can and will consumers continue to pay for various types of concepts? Developments regarding VAT could also have a more negative impact.

We are in an industry where we are collectively open to and will always embrace creativity, new ideas and new ways of thinking. With the right people, creating great things together is what we love to do. That’s where opportunities always lie.

What’s next for the Ahoy? And is there anything you would like to add?
We remain focused on innovation, sustainability, collaboration and diversity in our programming and we will invest where necessary. In addition, we are committed to further growing our signature events, attracting new international productions and strengthening our position as a multifunctional venue.

Rotterdam Ahoy continues to be a place where people come together, where creativity comes to life and where we work with partners to build a future that is strong, sustainable and socially connected.

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