For years, Alex Abdennader worked as a chemical engineer. Still, it was itching to start in the hospitality industry, just like his family. That is why he decided to change course in 2021. He opened his own branch of the popular chain Backwork: a bakery café where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, coffee and fresh snacks. Together with his wife Monique, he has given his own twist to the concept: “The music, the layout, the atmosphere, everything fits.”
Backwerk can be found in Stadshart Zoetermeer. It is a cozy hotspot with breakfast and lunch products such as sandwiches, croissants, juices and smoothies. You can also drink delicious coffee that you can only get at this chain in the Netherlands. You grab a tray yourself and walk past the various refreshments. According to Alex, quality and affordability are paramount. “Everyone can pick something delicious here, even if you only have a few euros. Our cheapest coffee costs 1.50 euros. By the way, the most expensive is only 2.50 euros,” he says. “We make as much as possible fresh on the day itself and are always open early.”
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A private atmosphere
Alex and his wife opened Backwerk in Zoetermeer in October of 2021. It was immediately nice and busy in their bakery café. “I think that is partly due to the special atmosphere here. For example, we often receive compliments about the pleasant Latin American music, the open layout of the store and the decoration.” Alex also thinks they are popular because everyone can go there. “We have plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, but we can also easily adapt a sandwich to make it halal, for example.”
Zoetermeers are nice
Alex and Monique are originally from Brabant. They ended up in Zoetermeer because they found the perfect location for their bakery here. “Stadshart Zoetermeer is a very pleasant place with a diverse audience. We felt right at home here. A lot is happening and you just see cheer all around you. Zoetermeers are a nice people. That also makes the work so much more fun.”
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Keep improving
According to Alex, Backwerk’s strength lies in the fact that they continue to innovate. He wants to do that as much as possible with his own business. “We regularly consult with the head office about new products. Every four weeks there is something new on our menu. In addition, we are looking at how we can create even more accessible seating areas in the store, so that families and older people can also sit comfortably everywhere. This is how we keep improving all the time.” Alex and his team also provide catering for companies, even outside opening hours!
City center of Zoetermeer
In City center of Zoetermeer is a lot of choice of shops. Whether you are looking for a new television, beautiful clothing or an original gift: you have come to the right place in Stadshart Zoetermeer.
The range of shops varies from small specialty shops to large department stores, such as Mediamarkt, Albert Heijn XL, TK Maxx, JD Sports, Douglas, Rituals, H&M, Mango, Foot Locker, Albert Nolten, Primark and the Douwe Egberts Cafe. Stadshart Zoetermeer also offers a wide choice of various dining and entertainment venues. Got an appetite from shopping? Or do you want to take a break with a drink? In the Stadshart you will find a place to settle down!
This article is sponsored by Retailers Association Promotion Stadshart Zoetermeer.