A conversation with Ronald van Toque Toque and Quignon: from identity to growth
Two hospitality businesses side by side, each with its own identity, atmosphere and story. For Ronald, owner of Toque Toque and Quignon Kitchen & Bar, this is precisely where the strength and the challenge lie. Together with The Fully Bookers, he is working on clear positioning, professional visibility and marketing that truly reflects both concepts. The venues that have been close to Ronald’s heart for years are both situated on the lively Oudegracht in Utrecht.
In this interview, Ronald explains how the partnership came about, what steps have been taken in recent years, and where he still sees opportunities for the future.
How did the collaboration with The Fully Bookers originally come about?
“The collaboration came about on our own initiative. During the coronavirus pandemic, I came across The Fully Bookers and we got in touch. We then had a number of fruitful exploratory discussions. Shortly afterwards, they visited us and we began working together.“
Could you describe a highlight or a moment of success from the collaboration?
“One key success was that The Fully Bookers helped us to define the identity of our two businesses more clearly. As our businesses are located next to each other, it was important that they each had their own distinct image and narrative and did not end up competing with one another.
By taking a closer look together at our positioning, brand image and social media, we’ve gained much greater clarity about what we stand for. That also gave me, as an entrepreneur, a clearer picture of the direction we needed to take.”
How has the collaboration contributed to your business objectives or growth?
“For us, the biggest benefit lies in the professionalisation of our marketing. Previously, we managed our social media ourselves, but this was done without a clear plan, with less compelling copy and images that didn’t always convey the quality we wanted.
”Thanks to this collaboration, we now have a clear schedule, professional copy, striking photography and, more recently, video content as well. This enables us to better showcase who we are and what sets our companies apart.”
How do you find the communication and support provided by our team?
“Cooperation and communication are constantly improving. At first, it took some getting used to the fact that several people from The Fully Bookers were involved rather than just one designated contact person. That sometimes caused a bit of confusion.
At the same time, it helps enormously that various team members have now visited our business and have therefore gained a better understanding of our company. As a result, they understand our situation better and their ideas and content are increasingly tailored to our business. The annual events are also being organised more and more effectively.“
How do you envisage the future of your collaboration with The Fully Bookers?
“I see a great many opportunities, particularly in the further development of marketing, AI and video content. These are developments that we, as hospitality entrepreneurs, don’t always know everything about straight away, but where The Fully Bookers can help us to grow alongside these trends.
In addition, we want to adopt a more structured approach to our activities and campaigns. Once something is well established and takes place regularly – such as the Thursday cocktail evenings, for example – it becomes recognisable and increasingly runs itself. In this regard, we need each other to properly organise and promote new ideas..”
Coming to Utrecht soon?
Then be sure to pop into one of Ronald’s two shops.
Be sure to check out the website of Toque Toque and Quignon to get a taste of the atmosphere.
