According to sales reports and the Dutch National Platform of Swimming Pools, use of the burkini in the Netherlands has now reached “normal” status, as most swimming pools in the country now allow them to be worn. One burkini store in Meppel has hired extra staff to meet increased demand, and the Woordman Sportswear company won the right to sell the burkini almost exclusively throughout Europe. “We have had talks with swimming pools and have demonstrated that the burkini is very hygienic,” says Woortman. “Now we no longer hear that a swimmer in a burkini will not be allowed.” In the ensuing row, the Dutch government welcomed the burkini, saying that it would aid integration as it would allow orthodox Muslims to swim.
