ROTTERDAM, 23 October 2024 – MediaMarkt is celebrating 25 years in the Netherlands. The German electronics retailer first opened its doors in Rotterdam in 1999, transforming the Dutch consumer electronics market.

^{Photo credit: Opening of the first MediaMarkt in the Netherlands in November 1999, Binnenwegplein, Rotterdam. Source: Peter Hilz}

MediaMarkt marks 25 years in Rotterdam

The consumer electronics retailer, MediaMarkt, is marking its 25th anniversary this month. The German company, originally founded in 1979, opened its first Dutch store in Rotterdam at Binnenwegplein in late 1999. Its introduction revolutionised the Dutch retail landscape by offering a large store format and competitive pricing. In celebration of its silver anniversary, MediaMarkt will launch a special media campaign, with a temporary return of the “Gekkenhuis” sale, which was well-known for its exclusive offers. Additionally, a unique night opening will be held from 26 to 27 October, coinciding with the shift to wintertime.

Democratization of consumer electronics

When MediaMarkt entered the Dutch market, it disrupted the way consumer electronics were sold. By offering a vast range of products at lower prices, the retailer made consumer electronics more accessible to the wider public. The ability to physically interact with products before purchasing was also a novel feature that helped cement MediaMarkt’s popularity. This hands-on approach continues to be one of the store’s main attractions today.

Innovation and changing consumer habits

A key aspect of MediaMarkt’s approach has always been innovation. In its early years, the store was known for keeping large amounts of stock on-site, allowing customers to take products home immediately. The retailer also played a role in boosting late-night shopping with special hourly deals and extended opening hours, which at the time was uncommon in the electronics sector. Through its lively marketing campaigns, MediaMarkt quickly became a household name. The store’s appeal was further boosted by celebrity appearances from artists such as Jan Smit and Meat Loaf.

As of 2024, MediaMarkt operates 55 stores in the Netherlands, along with an online shop and app. This year, the company launched a marketplace that allows external sellers to sell their products via the MediaMarkt platform. Additionally, each store now includes a “Smartbar”, where customers can receive advice and access services like product trade-ins, setting up energy or telecom contracts, and preparing laptops and smartphones for use.

Partnering with Feyenoord

This year, MediaMarkt also became a key sponsor of Feyenoord, Rotterdam's football club. The two organisations share a passion for entrepreneurship and community engagement, and plan to collaborate on various projects within the region and beyond.

Remko Rijnders, CEO of MediaMarkt Benelux, described the company’s journey in the Dutch market: “It has been an incredible experience so far. With our team members, customers, partners, and suppliers, we have witnessed the growing importance of technology, as it continues to change rapidly. We have faced challenges head-on in the past 25 years, and we intend to do the same for the next 25.”

Sustainability and innovation

Sustainability has become an increasing focus for MediaMarkt. In 2022, the MediaMarktSaturn group introduced the BetterWay programme across all its markets. This initiative encourages consumers to make more sustainable choices by offering services such as product trade-ins, refurbished items, and a labelling system for eco-friendly products. Rijnders commented: “As technology evolves quickly, we are acutely aware of our responsibility to operate sustainably. With the BetterWay programme, we help consumers extend the life of their products and make more environmentally friendly choices. Additionally, we are always looking at ways to reduce our own ecological footprint.”

October sales and special night opening

From 24 to 27 October, MediaMarkt will relaunch its well-known “Gekkenhuis” sale, which originally attracted large crowds with unique offers and special promotions. For this anniversary edition, prizes will include a stay at a popular TV B&B in South Africa and a private tour of the Red Bull Racing factory in Milton Keynes, UK.

On the night of 26 to 27 October, MediaMarkt will hold a special one-hour night opening in its Tech Village Rotterdam location at Binnenwegplein, coinciding with the transition to wintertime. The retailer expects heavy traffic for this event and advises customers to arrive early. Details of the offers will be revealed shortly before the event on the MediaMarkt website.

Directions to Tech Village Rotterdam

Tech Village Rotterdam is located at Binnenwegplein, a central shopping area within walking distance of several public transport options. It can be easily accessed from Rotterdam Central Station by tram or metro. For those travelling by car, parking is available in nearby garages, including the APCOA Parking Westblaak.