Martijn and Menno, from friends to colleagues

QIOX-kiosks form the foundation of a fast-growing organization where entrepreneurship and collaboration are central. A QIOX is not only about innovative hardware, but above all about the people behind it and the partners we work with every day. Around the office, they are sometimes referred to as M&M: Menno and Martijn. Two colleagues with a special story that began long before QIOX.

Their fathers have been good friends for many years. For Menno and Martijn, it was only natural that they would grow up close to each other. They grew up together and became part of the same group of friends from secondary school onwards.

After secondary school, they both chose the same degree: Entrepreneurship & Retail Management.

During that period, Martijn’s entrepreneurial drive really started to grow. While others attended classes, he regularly skipped one to visit trade shows or attend meetings. Menno had to cover for Martijn with the teachers.

Four months after Menno graduated, he received another message. QIOX was growing so fast that it was time to take real steps with the company. That became the moment Menno officially joined the team. Now, three years later, their ritual is still the same: every morning they grab a coffee together to catch up briefly and go through the day.

The three of them started out together: Jan, Martijn, and Menno. From day one, they noticed that their close bond was a major advantage. They know exactly what to expect from each other, understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and communicate directly and honestly. This allows them to move quickly in situations where needed, which is essential in a growing company.

One of the highlights? Munich. Together they traveled there for the first installation in Germany. A weekend away, working hard — and celebrating in the evenings that they had taken this international step. “That was really one of the most enjoyable experiences together,” says Martijn.

Closer to home, major successes were achieved as well. The largest stadium in the Netherlands was secured. Martijn handled the commercial process, while Menno took on the full operational guidance and completion.

And privately? That hasn’t really changed. They spend just as much time together as before. In the summer even a bit more, when they meet on the padel court. Just like their fathers.