Dutch Federation of Professional Equestrian Centres

We are the FNRS, the Dutch Federation of Professional Equestrian Centres. Founded in 1930 and ever since then we have been partner of hundreds of equestrian entrepreneurs. This means nationwide: riding schools, boarding stables, sports stables, breeding stables, large stables and small stables. The FNRS is the trade association for equestrian entrepreneurs. We represent more than 430 equestrian companies. All equestrian companies can join the FNRS as long as they meet our standards of quality regarding safety and welfare. This is to ensure quality is high in our sector.

We are the FNRS, the Dutch Federation of Professional Equestrian Centres. Founded in 1930 and ever since then we have been partner of hundreds of equestrian entrepreneurs. This means nationwide: riding schools, boarding stables, sports stables, breeding stables, large stables and small stables. The FNRS is the trade association for equestrian entrepreneurs. We represent more than 430 equestrian companies. All equestrian companies can join the FNRS as long as they meet our standards of quality regarding safety and welfare. This is to ensure quality is high in our sector.

We support our members in a personal way with practical solutions, such as standardised contracts and personal advice and also by representing the sector towards politics and society. Furthurmore we have a large network of interesting partners for equestrian entrepreneurs. Our members can benefit from them financially or by using their specific knowledge.

Network

We also are a network of entrepreneurs. Combined we have many years’ experience in the equestrian sector. Throughout the year we organise multiple gatherings, workshops and events. Often we have interesting speakers, but also the time to talk and exchange knowledge with your fellow entrepreneurs. In the end we are stronger when we are united. The FNRS is also part of Platform Ondernemende Sportaanbieders (trade association for entrepreneurs in the sport industry) and the European Horse Network.

We always work from our three core values; Quality, Safety and Welfare. Everybody must be able to rely on the way things are organised at a FNRS company, for both animal and human.

Quality

The FNRS stands for Quality. In every aspect; from the stables to the sports canteen and from the daily operations to the education of your riders. It doesn’t have to be fancy but we think it is important to be clean, proper and comfortable, that safety and welfare is a priority, all personal has the correct education and that your company complies to law and regulation.
That is why we have a quality check when you request a membership at the FNRS. An independent inspector judges if the accommodation and operations comply with our minimal demands. This quality cehck is repeated every 2,5 year. Why? The quality of the entire equestrian sector needs to be lifted up further and we want to make sure you are proud to be part of the FNRS.

Safety

Safety for all animals and humans is our top priority. This is why the Safety Certificate (VHC) from the Federation of Safe Horseback riding (SVP) is obligated for FNRS member. The Safety Certificate shows the consumer that the accommodation is fit for safe horseback riding. It demands, amongst others that the building and structures are safe. For example the height of the riding arena and the width of the stable paths must be minimum measures. Other examples are the obligation of riding with a certified cap, using qualified riding instructors and having a sound calamity plan.

Welfare

Animal Welfare is a must for a healthy company; happy athletes are the basis for good performances. Working with animals brings responsibility, now more than ever with the wide attention for animal welfare. In the quality check we have an important part that covers animal welfare. Topics such as general health of the horses, feed management, stable climate, hours of free movement, etc. are handled during the inspection.

FNRS-KNHS are partners

FNRS and KNHS (sports association for horseback riding) are partners since 2015. This has many advantages for the sector but also for your company. Amongst others; for riding schools this means a professional and logical education for your clients and instructors. For boarding-, training-, and sports-tables this means organising official KNHS contests and handing out riding passes as a FNRS member.

Will you join us?

Do you want to get your company to a higher level? Entrance to interesting gatherings, workshops and inspirational sessions? Are you struggling with contracts, licenses, finances or operations? This and much more we can offer. Together we have a wide network of equestrian entrepreneurs. Will you join us? Please contact your personal account manager:

Swaen Brink – North Netherlands
Patrick Marsman – Central Netherlands
Anita de Ruiter – South Netherlands

Starting up an equestrian company in the Netherlands?

Are you planning on starting up your own equestrian company in the Netherlands? Do you need help with the right information about permits, taxes, insurance, legal matters etc? Please contact one of our accountmanagers. Together with our partner ABAB International we will make sure your questions will be answered. You can also find more government information for entrepreneurs on this Dutch Government website.

Where can I ride or board a horse?

Are you looking for a FNRS company to learn how to ride a horse or to board your horse? Please look at https://www.fnrs.nl/fnrs-netwerk/fnrs-bedrijven.

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