How to Plan a Successful Company Team Building Event

7 September 2025

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Planning a successful company team building event is both an art and a science — especially in the dynamic business landscape of the Netherlands. With evolving regulations, a strong emphasis on inclusivity, and a growing focus on sustainability, HR managers must balance legal compliance, employee engagement, and organizational goals. At UP Events, we specialize in creating memorable, fully customized team building experiences that not only meet these requirements but also inspire connection and fun.

Why Team Building Matters More Than Ever

Team building is not just a “nice-to-have” — it’s a strategic investment in your company’s culture and performance. According to Gallup, highly engaged teams are 21% more profitable and have 41% lower absenteeism. In the Netherlands, where direct communication and consensus-building are valued, team building activities that foster open dialogue and collective problem-solving are especially effective.

Regular, inclusive events reinforce company values, create a sense of belonging, and drive collaboration. The result? A more cohesive, productive, and motivated workforce.

Step 1: Understand Legal and Regulatory Requirements

Stay Ahead of Dutch Labor Law

The Dutch government has introduced several important updates for 2025:

  • Worker Classification: Ensure all participants are correctly classified as employees, not contractors, to avoid penalties.
  • Minimum Wage Compliance: As of January 2025, the legal minimum wage is €14.06 per hour for full-time workers aged 21 and over.
  • CO₂ Emissions Reporting: Companies must report emissions from employee travel — including travel to team building events — by June 30, 2025, for the previous year.
  • Flexible Work Rights: Respect employees’ rights to flexibility and work-life balance, as Dutch law strongly supports these principles.

Consult with legal and compliance experts to ensure your event plans meet all Dutch labor and environmental laws. For more details, see the Dutch government’s guidelines.

Step 2: Prioritize Inclusivity and Accessibility

A truly successful company team building event is one where everyone feels welcome and able to participate. Here’s how we ensure inclusivity at UP Events:

  • Accessible Venues: Our locations in Amsterdam West and Weesp are wheelchair accessible and designed for diverse group sizes.
  • Diverse Activities: We offer a wide range of team-building activities — from Expedition Robinson challenges to VR Team Challenges and cocktail workshops — so there’s something for everyone.
  • Flexible Participation: Offer both in-person and virtual options to include remote or hybrid workers.
  • Scheduling Considerations: Plan events during work hours to respect personal commitments and religious observances.
  • Dietary Needs: Our catering options can be fully customized for dietary restrictions and preferences.

For more on inclusive event planning, visit Diversity Charter NL.

Step 3: Choose the Right Activities and Venues

Align Activities with Company Values

Select activities that reflect your company’s culture and goals. For example, if innovation is a core value, consider a VR Team Challenge or Outdoor City Game. If you want to foster relaxation and informal networking, a BBQ party with live entertainment might be ideal.

Pro Tip: Use employee surveys to identify preferred activities and potential barriers to participation. This not only boosts engagement but also ensures your event is relevant and well-attended.

Opt for Sustainable and Accessible Venues

Sustainability is a growing priority in the Netherlands. Choose venues that are accessible by public transport or encourage carpooling to minimize emissions. At UP Events, our venues are designed with sustainability in mind, and we can help you track and report your event’s environmental impact.

Learn more about sustainable event practices at MVO Nederland.

Step 4: Plan for Environmental Responsibility

With new CO₂ reporting obligations, it’s essential to consider the environmental impact of your event:

  • Travel Emissions: Use carbon tracking software to measure and report emissions from employee travel.
  • Sustainable Catering: Choose local, seasonal ingredients and minimize single-use plastics.
  • Green Activities: Opt for outdoor activities or workshops that highlight sustainability.

By demonstrating environmental responsibility, you not only comply with regulations but also enhance your employer brand.

Step 5: Communicate, Execute, and Measure Success

Communicate the Purpose and Benefits

Clearly communicate the purpose, agenda, and benefits of the event to all employees. Transparency builds excitement and ensures everyone understands the value of participating.

Seamless Execution

With over 15 years of experience and a 4.8 Google review score from more than 2,600 customers, we handle every detail — from activities and catering to decorations and entertainment — for a seamless, stress-free experience.

Measure and Improve

Gather feedback after the event through surveys or digital tools. Track participation, engagement, and environmental impact to measure ROI and improve future events.

Popular Team Building Activities at UP Events

Explore all our team-building activities and workshops.

Customization and Flexibility

Every company is unique, and so is every event we organize. Whether you’re planning a corporate party, product launch, or school activity, we offer fully tailored packages — including catering, decorations, and entertainment — at both our Amsterdam and Weesp locations.

Insider Tips for HR Managers

  • Start Early: Secure your preferred venue and activities well in advance.
  • Engage Leadership: Involve company leaders to boost participation and set the tone.
  • Celebrate Diversity: Incorporate elements that reflect the diversity of your team.
  • Plan for All Weather: Choose venues with both indoor and outdoor options to ensure a great experience, rain or shine.

FAQ: How to Plan a Successful Company Team Building Event

Q: What are the legal requirements for company team building events in the Netherlands? A: Ensure correct worker classification, comply with minimum wage laws, report CO₂ emissions from employee travel, and respect flexible work rights.

Q: How can I make my event inclusive? A: Choose accessible venues, offer diverse activities, accommodate dietary needs, and provide both in-person and virtual participation options.

Q: What are the benefits of team building for my company? A: Increased employee engagement, improved collaboration, higher productivity, and a stronger company culture.

Q: How do I choose the right activities? A: Survey employees to understand their preferences and select activities that align with your company’s values and goals.

Q: How can I ensure my event is environmentally responsible? A: Opt for sustainable venues, encourage public transport or carpooling, and track your event’s carbon footprint.

Q: Where can I find more information or book an event? A: Visit our pages for team-building, corporate events, school activities, outings in Amsterdam, and outings in Weesp.

Ready to Plan Your Next Team Building Event?

At UP Events, we’re passionate about creating experiences that connect, inspire, and deliver real value. Whether you’re organizing a company-wide team building event, a product launch, or a school outing, our expert team is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us for a personalized quote and discover how we can make your next event unforgettable.

References and Further Reading:

Explore more about our activities, meetings, workshops, and event agency services. Let’s create something extraordinary together!