Launch hospitality hallmark 'Cosy': together we put the black brigade in the spotlight

GROLLOO - During a festive gathering on Wednesday 24 September at Café Hofsteenge in Grolloo, the first ten hospitality businesses in the Netherlands were awarded the new hospitality hallmark 'Cosy'. The hallmark is an initiative of hospitality expert Jeannine Sok and hospitality entrepreneur Sven Heijkoop, and is supported by a growing network of partners from education, media and the hospitality industry.

The 'Cosy' hallmark is the first independent hallmark that focuses on hospitality in service. While chefs often receive recognition through stars and awards, the black brigade - the serving staff - remains underexposed. 'Gezellig' changes this by judging hospitality businesses on personal attention, experience and genuine hospitality.

Students from Drenthe College conducted the first mystery visits and assessed the participating catering establishments on attitude, contact and atmosphere. "A smile, a personal goodbye, a sincere question - that sticks with the guest," says Sok.

The first ten proud bearers of the hallmark are spread across the country, including Mr Mofongo (Groningen), Mei Wah (Eindhoven), Graaf ter Horst (Horst), De Graanhalm (Burgh-Haamstede) and Joann* (Enschede). The award ceremony took place in the middle of the Week of the Catering Industry and received wide media coverage.

Cooperation as key to success

The 'Cosy' hallmark was born out of cooperation between catering entrepreneurs, educational institutions, sponsors and industry organisations. Partners such as Koninklijke Horeca Nederland, De Horecabond, Food Inspiration and various hospitality schools play a crucial role in the further roll-out and professionalisation of the hallmark.

"Hospitality is not an afterthought, but a profession. Thanks to our partners, we can make that profession visible, appreciate it and strengthen it," says Sven Heijkoop.

Publications and visibility

The hallmark has since been highlighted through various media outlets:

• Daily newspaper of the north
• Food Inspiration
• Restaurant newspaper
• Koninklijke Horeca Nederland (KHN)
• The Catering Association

Next step: nationwide rollout

With the first presentation as a flying start, the team behind 'Cosy' is working on a national roll-out. New mystery visits, network expansion and further training are on the agenda. Partners are cordially invited to think, build and celebrate with us.

📞06-14910743 info@gezellig-keurmerk.nl

 For more information, collaboration or interview requests: Jeannine Sok - info@gastologie.nl Sven Heijkoop - info@copainhoreca.nl 🌐 www.gezelliggastvrij.nl