Discover how Nobel, a historic family business, reinvented itself and grew into a multi-faceted brand that celebrates its rich past while remaining innovative in the hospitality and beverage industry. This story not only proves that innovation and tradition can go hand in hand, but is also an example of how a local family business grew into a nationally recognized brand.
THE HISTORY OF NOBLE
Barend Nobel, the fourth generation owner, takes us back to the roots of his family business on Ameland, including the hotel, restaurant, café, and nowadays Nobels Drinks, a nationally recognized beverage line. The story begins in 1902 in the "living room of yesteryear," where behind a modest bar, during a harsh winter, the iconic Nobeltje was born. This liqueur, originally a local specialty, is now a nationally beloved brand.
NOBELTJE: A BRAND THAT GOES BEYOND LIQUEUR
Nobel is known not only for its products but also for the experience it offers. The brand and the island of Ameland are inextricably linked, with every guest visiting the island immersed in the Nobel experience. This unique pairing of product, place and emotion makes Nobeltje more than just a drink; it is part of the Ameland experience.
THE POWER OF STORIES AND EMOTIONS
The world of Nobel is all about the story and emotion that comes with the brand. Every element of Nobel, from the interior design to the marketing, contributes to telling this story, where guests are not just consumers, but ambassadors of the brand. Nobel's team is specially trained to provide each guest with an unforgettable experience, making them walk out the door as happy promoters.
THE TRANSFORMATION OF NOBLE
The turning point for Nobel came when Barend decided to step back and look at the entire concept from a new perspective. By thoroughly rethinking and adapting the concept, Nobel transformed from a traditional family business to a modern, omnichannel brand. This strategic shift involved not only revamping the interior design and marketing, but also redefining the guest experience and employee training.
A NEW APPROACH TO HOSPITALITY
The key to Nobel's success lies in its focus on the guest experience. Nobel's team is trained to not only provide excellent service, but also to have each guest leave as an ambassador for the brand. 'Benobling guests' it is called, andby staying true to their unique way of providing hospitality and service, Nobel has built strong relationships with both employees and customers, who choose Nobel because of the unique guest experience it offers.
THE ROLE OF MARKETING IN THE SUCCESS OF NOBEL
Marketing plays a crucial role in Nobel's success story. Through effective use of e-mail marketing, branding and visibility in all aspects of the business, from printed napkins to straws, Nobel remains a prominent name in the hospitality industry. But the real secret to this success is hidden in the customer journey: once guests enter, they leave nothing to chance. There is thought and a plan for everything. Everyone is trained on this. And this is how guests really experience the Nobel experience.
These strategies have helped Barend not only share his story, but also build a recognizable and respected brand synonymous with quality and authenticity.
Nobel's journey from a historic liqueur producer to a trendsetting brand illustrates the power of innovation, guest experience and the inextricable connection to their origins. Nobel stays true to its roots while exploring new avenues, proving that traditional values and modern marketing can go hand in hand.
In this mini-series, we talk to several entrepreneurs from the hospitality and retail industry about the power of their branding and marketing strategy every season. Find out how they successfully put this into practice and which communication channels are important in the process.
