Initially, the new stations will open locally, i.e. not along motorways. This not only provides added value for travellers, but also makes the station a meeting place for the neighbourhood. In this way, Tango and Bakker Bart are responding to consumers' expectations. Research* shows that no fewer than 62% of people in the Netherlands expect refuelling and charging stations to increasingly transform into retail and meeting locations over the next decade. Moreover, almost 30% of those who took part in the survey indicated that they would stop more at a refuelling or charging station if quality coffee was served, over 20% if there were healthy food options and around 20% for a cosy eating area. The latter is an essential element in the joint new concept being developed by Tango and Bakker Bart. 

Our ambition 

The partnership between Tango and Bakker Bart marks a unique step that places the eating experience and quality centre stage. Together, the two Dutch brands are combining their expertise to set a new standard in the refuelling and charging station experience. Tango focuses on practical comfort, while Bakker Bart provides a delicious break. Whether it's to get something tasty for the road or to take home, or a chance to sit back and relax for a while, every stopover will be a moment to enjoy. It is precisely this combination that makes the concept so special. The aim is clear: in the next two years, the first ten locations will be completely transformed in line with this innovative concept, where electric charging, refuelling and a tasty break go hand in hand. Additional sites will then be converted to the new concept. 

Michael Romijn, Shop Performance Manager at Tango, is pleased with the new partnership: ‘We are preparing for the future with this new concept, which focuses on electric charging and a quality eating experience. At the same time, we continue to serve our customers who use traditional fuels with the familiar service and products, providing good value for money. Our aim is to future-proof our Tango locations so that everyone - whether you drive electric, fill up with petrol or are on the road - can come to us for convenience, quality and a pleasant stopover. I am immensely proud that we can achieve this together with Bakker Bart.’ 

Michael van Dongen, Managing Director of Bakker Bart, is also looking forward to working with Tango: ‘Bakker Bart stands for quality and contemporary service. Our shops not only offer freshly prepared products, but also a modern, welcoming environment for a tasty stopover. This collaboration fits seamlessly with our revamped shop concept, where a fresh look and tasty products take centre stage. Whether you need to recharge - literally and figuratively - or just fancy a really tasty sandwich and a good cup of coffee, Bakker Bart is the place to be. We are proud of this concept, where taste, convenience and experience come together.’ 

Unique & local experience 

Tango already has a reputation as an industry trendsetter, having introduced unmanned service stations. After almost twenty-five years, it is time to take a new direction. At a time when electric driving is growing rapidly and motorists have to wait an average of 25 minutes for their car to charge, this concept offers a valuable moment to rest. The choice to work with Bakker Bart is obvious thanks to their broad retail experience, eye for quality and service that whets the appetite. 

About the study* 

This is according to research conducted by research firm IVOX commissioned by Q8. The survey was carried out among 1,000 Dutch people in November 2024. 

About Tango 

Tango, part of energy company Q8, is the founder of the “unmanned service station” market segment in the Netherlands and has worked to create its nationwide network of currently up to around 200 service stations since opening its first unmanned location in 2000. Convenience, speed and price are key at Tango. Smart refuelling has become a household term thanks to Tango's unmanned stations and today, Tango focuses on getting to your destination the smart way. With Tango electric superfast charging stations, an app to find them, car insurance where drivers only pay for miles driven and more. Tango aims to develop further to become a broad mobility-oriented service provider in the future. 

About Bakker Bart 
Bakker Bart has been baking and filling sandwiches in the Netherlands since 1977. What started with one shop in Nijmegen has grown into a national brand that now has 130 stores. With a strong focus on all-day fresh products and innovation, Bakker Bart continues to surprise the Netherlands - from richly filled 'Bartje' rolls to takeaway meals with just that little bit extra. 

Bakker Bart is the franchise formula of Bart's Retail B.V. Bart's Retail B.V., together with Bakerstreet Services B.V. and Bagels & Beans B.V., is part of Vital Food Group B.V. Based in Utrecht, it is building a future-proof food service platform that responds to the changing needs of its guests.