Dutch Government Secures Framework Deal with European Cloud Provider Stackit

The Dutch government signed a framework agreement with German cloud provider Stackit, allowing public bodies to procure cloud services on pre-agreed, secure terms. Negotiated by Strategic Supplier Management for Government (SLM Rijk), the deal is voluntary, imposes no minimum spend, requires data storage within the European Economic Area, grants audit rights, and includes an exit clause that permits termination “for example, if the supplier falls into the hands of a party outside the EEA.”

Dutch government secures deal with European cloud platform STACKITDutch government selects Stackit, Lidl’s sister company, as its cloud alternative

The pact follows scrutiny of foreign ownership after U.S. firm Kyndryl bought Dutch digital-identity provider Solvinity, sparking strong political opposition and recalling the immigration service IND’s exit from Zivver when it fell under U.S. control. Critics argue that reliance on non-European providers threatens digital autonomy and have pressed for safeguards such as the exit clause.

Dutch government selects Stackit, Lidl’s sister company, as its cloud alternative

State Secretary for Digital Economy and Sovereignty Willemijn Aerdts led the negotiations, stressing that digital autonomy depends on a broad selection of providers and a well-developed European market. Justice and Security Minister Van Weel said the deal would cut reliance on non-European parties and boost digital resilience. SLM Rijk coordinated the framework, and Stackit, part of Schwarz Digits (the digital arm of the Schwarz Group), operates seven data centres in Germany and Austria.

Dutch government secures deal with European cloud platform STACKIT

Stackit’s clientele includes SAP, Lidl, Kaufland, Bayern Munich and VfB Stuttgart, positioning it as a European alternative to U.S. hyperscalers. De Nederlandsche Bank recently signed a major contract to reduce its reliance on American cloud services, and the European Commission has selected Stackit for a €180 million, six-year cloud programme.

Dutch government selects Stackit, Lidl’s sister company, as its cloud alternative

Both sources agree on the agreement’s terms, client list and exit clause, with no contradictory data. The deal’s financial value and the specifics of audit implementation are not disclosed.

Dutch government selects Stackit, Lidl’s sister company, as its cloud alternative

• “Digital autonomy means having the freedom to choose from a wide range of providers, ensuring competition and innovation. Strengthening the European market is key to achieving this. This agreement enables government organisations to access cloud services from European providers on favourable terms.” — Willemijn Aerdts, State Secretary

Dutch government secures deal with European cloud platform STACKIT

• “With this agreement, we are taking an important step towards reducing our dependence on non-European parties and strengthening our digital resilience.” — Van Weel, Justice and Security Minister

Dutch government secures deal with European cloud platform STACKIT

• “Digital autonomy means that we can make our own choices from a diverse range of providers. That is why it is important that we stimulate the European market.” — Willemijn Aerdts, State Secretary

Dutch government selects Stackit, Lidl’s sister company, as its cloud alternative

• “for example, if the supplier falls into the hands of a party outside the EEA.” — Dutch government

Dutch government selects Stackit, Lidl’s sister company, as its cloud alternative

The government will conduct regular audits and may invoke the exit clause if Stackit’s ownership changes. The European Commission’s €180 million, six-year cloud programme with Stackit indicates ongoing EU procurement of European cloud services.

Dutch government selects Stackit, Lidl’s sister company, as its cloud alternative