25 YEARS... IN GOOD HANDS
“As an accountant, you look at a business differently from most people. We see not only the numbers, but also the human side behind the company. It is precisely when important decisions need to be made that vulnerability and strength come together. This is certainly true for Annaline and Patriek.
My relationship with Mes Amis began decades ago, when Annaline and Frans were presented with the opportunity to purchase the building at Tongersestraat 5.”
More Than Just Numbers
“Initially, my colleague Willie Eurlings was their main contact at Euregio HabetsRoyen, but from the time of the property purchase, I became increasingly involved with the restaurant as well.
Over the years, I have witnessed many significant moments firsthand. The purchase of the building, the decision to invest in a major renovation, but also the difficult period following Frans' passing. These are the moments when a professional relationship becomes about much more than annual accounts, tax returns and financial figures.”
A New Generation
“Following Frans' passing, the mutual trust between us grew even stronger. It is during times like these that having a reliable, safe space to discuss business dilemmas becomes especially important for an entrepreneur.
It has been a wonderful and special experience to witness the gradual handover of the restaurant from Annaline to Patriek. A new generation taking responsibility while remaining true to the values of the family business.
I would also like to acknowledge the important role played by my colleague Miriam op den Buijsch. She maintains daily contact with Annaline and Patriek and takes care of an incredible number of things behind the scenes, often before I even need to get involved. Patriek genuinely considers Miriam part of his core team, which is lovely to see.”
Values That Remain Unchanged
“In my own profession, there has been a great deal of discussion over the past few decades about digitalisation and, more recently, artificial intelligence. Of course, technology continues to evolve. But the essence of our work has remained the same since Euregio HabetsRoyen was founded 35 years ago: trust, personal attention, empathy and professional expertise. Knowledge is becoming increasingly accessible, but you cannot build a relationship based on trust through technology alone.
And perhaps the same is ultimately true for Mes Amis. The restaurant has grown and evolved over the years, but its core values have remained unchanged: genuine care and attention for people. That is why I have every confidence that Patriek will successfully continue the story of Mes Amis in his own way.”
