MKB Juristen drafts custom legal documents
It is best not to cobble together or copy important contracts, terms and conditions, and other legal documents yourself. We help entrepreneurs on a budget with customized legal solutions, clear costs upfront, and practical explanations.
- Custom contracts, terms and conditions, and legal documents
- Budget-friendly and clear about the costs upfront
- Request a free consultation or a no-obligation quote
You can successfully open a pop-up store by properly arranging four things: a suitable location with the correct zoning, the necessary permits, a watertight temporary lease agreement, and compliance with local regulations from the General Municipal Ordinance (APV). A pop-up store is ideal for testing products, exploring a market, or increasing your brand awareness—without the long-term obligations of a regular store. However, it is precisely the temporary nature that calls for clear agreements. Below, you can read what to look out for.
What is a pop-up store?
A pop-up store is a temporary shop or point of sale, often lasting from a few weeks to months. Entrepreneurs use it to try out a new product or location, sell seasonally (think of the holidays), or create extra visibility. Flexibility is its major asset, but it also means that you need to get everything legally in order within a short time.
Finding a suitable location
Location is the deciding factor. Finding a suitable space requires creativity: consider vacant retail properties, offices, or spaces becoming available through anti-squatting organizations. Contact your municipality or local real estate agents to see what is available.
Next, check whether the property fits your plans. Pay particular attention to:
- The type of business premises: retail business premises (such as a shop) or other business premises. Each type has its own rental rules and tenant protection.
- The zoning: does retail trade or your activity permit at that location? The municipal zoning regulations (currently largely included in the environmental plan) determine what is allowed.
- Local regulations: consult your municipality's General Local Ordinance (APV) for matters such as displays, opening hours, and advertising
Which permits do you need?
Which permits are required depends on your activities. Possibly relevant:
- Operating license (depending on municipality and type of business).
- Alcohol license if you serve alcohol — regulated since 2021 in the Alcohol Act (formerly the Licensing and Catering Act).
- Environmental permit for modifications to the building or deviating use.
- Music rights (Buma/Stemra and Sena) if you play music.
If you serve food, the NVWA regulations , and you must, among other things, work according to a food safety plan (HACCP). The exact rules that apply vary by municipality and activity; check this in good time, as permits require processing time.
The temporary rental agreement: pay attention to this
A good, clear temporary lease agreement is crucial. For retail space (commercial premises for small and medium-sized enterprises), statutory tenancy protection often applies with terms of five and ten years. For a pop-up, however, you want a short, temporary arrangement — this requires the right contract form so that you are not unintentionally tied to a long term.
In any case, specify: the rental period and end date, the rent and additional costs, permitted modifications to the property, the condition upon delivery, and who is responsible for maintenance and repairs. See also what should be included in a lease agreement for commercial premises. Have the contract drafted or reviewed by a lawyer.
Frequently asked questions about a pop-up store
Do I need to register a pop-up store with the Chamber of Commerce?
If you sell commercially, you have a business and it must be registered with the Chamber of Commerce. If you already have a registered company, the pop-up usually falls under it. You can register a temporary location as a branch office.
Can I just start in a vacant retail property?
Not just like that. You need permission from the owner (a lease agreement), and the use must comply with zoning regulations and local rules. Check this in advance to avoid problems with the municipality or landlord.
How do I avoid being tied to a long lease term?
By choosing the right contract type. For short-term use, specific options exist to stay outside the standard tenancy protection periods. Ensure this is properly documented; an incorrectly drafted contract can bind you unintentionally for a long time.
Help with starting a pop-up shop
Don't try to figure it all out yourself. The legal experts at MKB Juristen draft your temporary lease agreement, guide you through permits and regulations, and provide practical advice. View our expertise in tenancy law and corporate law, or schedule a no-obligation intake.
