Amsterdam’s change champions: Meet Rodney Nikkels

Rodney, thanks for joining us. How did your career lead to Chocolatemakers? What inspired you to start your company here in Amsterdam?

My background is in tropical agriculture, where I worked closely with farmers in producing countries, focusing on projects, finances, and market access. Over time, I realised that to make a real difference, I needed to be part of the value chain. This led me to co-found Chocolatemakers, a chocolate brand that directly contributes to improving farmer livelihoods and protecting biodiversity. Chocolatemakers started in the North side of Amsterdam, since 2019 we are located in the biggest cocoa port or harbour, so it was the perfect place to start this journey.

What is your mission with Chocolatemakers, and how does this align with creating a positive impact on Amsterdam’s business ecosystem?

Our mission is to use chocolate as a force for good—to uplift farmer families, restore nature, and reduce carbon emissions. By setting an example in Amsterdam, we aim to inspire other impact-driven businesses in the city to adopt similar practices, contributing to a more sustainable and ethical business ecosystem.

Can you talk about specific initiatives Chocolatemakers has undertaken to promote sustainability and ethical practices in your industry within Amsterdam?

We’ve implemented several initiatives that embody our commitment to sustainability. Our factory runs entirely on solar energy, we transport cocoa beans by sailboat, and we use cargo bikes to deliver our chocolate to the German market. These actions not only reduce our carbon footprint but also demonstrate what's possible in sustainable business.

Why are you based in Amsterdam, and what benefits does the city offer for impact-led businesses?

Amsterdam is a hub for trade and cocoa storage, making it a natural fit for us. Beyond that, the city’s international atmosphere, vibrant culture, and forward-thinking mindset create the perfect environment for innovative and sustainable businesses to thrive.

What are the biggest challenges you face in driving sustainable practices within your industry?

A major challenge is the lack of urgency within the industry to adopt sustainable practices. The focus is often on short-term financial gains rather than long-term sustainability, which can make it difficult to push for change.

What barriers do local businesses face in adopting sustainable practices, particularly smaller enterprises, and how do you address them?

One of the biggest barriers is market access. In the food industry, large players like supermarkets dominate, making it hard for smaller enterprises to reach consumers. We address this by building a strong, loyal customer base and finding alternative distribution methods, such as direct sales and local partnerships.

What have been the most valuable lessons you’ve learned in your journey?

The most important lesson is persistence—just keep pushing. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but with dedication and resilience, you can achieve your goals.

What are your long-term goals for Chocolatemakers in Amsterdam, and how do you plan to achieve them?

Our long-term goal is to educate Amsterdam residents about how chocolate is made, turning them into loyal customers and brand advocates. By engaging with the community and sharing our story, we hope to build a lasting connection with our audience.

What role will Chocolatemakers play in shaping Amsterdam’s sustainable future?

We aim to lead by example, demonstrating how a business can be both profitable and sustainable. Our hope is to accelerate the adoption of similar practices by other businesses in the city, creating a ripple effect of positive impact.

Can you share any upcoming projects or initiatives that you’re excited about and how they will impact the local sustainability industry?

We’re excited about sourcing milk from nearby organic farmers for our products. This initiative not only supports local agriculture but also strengthens our commitment to sustainability.

What role does collaboration play in your strategy to create a sustainable ecosystem in Amsterdam?

Collaboration is crucial. We regularly host Tour & Tastings at our factory, welcoming companies, teams, and students to learn about sustainable business practices. These sessions help spread our message and inspire others to follow suit.

How does Chocolatemakers engage with startups and emerging designers in Amsterdam to promote innovation and sustainability?

We organise inspirational sessions where we exchange ideas informally with startups and designers. These sessions foster mutual support and help us advance our shared missions in sustainability.

Very inspiring, thank you. Any final thoughts or advice for other impact-driven entrepreneurs?

My advice is simple: just start. If you don’t start, you’ll never make progress. Take the first step, and the rest will follow.