Brownies & Downies: A Delicious Cafe With A Heartfelt Mission!

Ever walked into a place and felt instantly good, not just because of the aroma of freshly baked goods, but because of the palpable sense of purpose and inclusivity? Brownies & downies is more than just a café; it's a testament to the power of social entrepreneurship and the incredible potential of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Founded in 2010 in Veghel, Netherlands, by two friends, Teun Horck and Thijs Swinkels, Brownies & downies was born out of a simple yet profound idea. Horck, a chef, and Swinkels, a special needs teacher, envisioned a place where delicious food and meaningful employment could intersect. Their vision has blossomed into a thriving chain with over 55 locations, not only in the Netherlands but also in Belgium and even as far as Cape Town, South Africa. The concept is straightforward: to provide individuals with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities the opportunity to work in a supportive and engaging environment. These "kanjers," as they are affectionately known, are the heart and soul of Brownies & downies, serving up not just coffee and brownies but also a generous helping of joy and community.

Category Information
Name of Establishment Brownies & downies
Type of Business Café Chain
Founders Teun Horck (Chef) and Thijs Swinkels (Special Needs Teacher)
Year Founded 2010
Location of Founding Veghel, Netherlands
Mission To provide meaningful employment to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Number of Locations Over 55
Geographic Presence Netherlands, Belgium, South Africa
Core Values Inclusivity, Social Entrepreneurship, Community, Quality Food
Menu Highlights Brownies, Coffee, Lunch Dishes (Sandwiches, Salads)
Target Employees Individuals with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities
Website Brownies & downies Official Website

The appeal of Brownies & downies goes far beyond the quality of its menu, which boasts all sorts of sweet treats and a substantial lunch menu featuring delectable sandwiches and warm dishes. Locations such as Brownies&downies Venlo are particularly known for their exceptional brownies, scrumptious pancakes, and delightful apple pie. Pair these delights with a perfectly prepared latte, aromatic tea, or a rich cappuccino, and you have a recipe for a truly satisfying experience. However, it's the atmosphere and the ethos of the establishment that truly set it apart.

The Dutch, it seems, are a step ahead when it comes to integration, and Brownies & downies is a shining example of this. The café chain's commitment to providing opportunities for people with disabilities to participate fully in society is commendable. Imagine a place where individuals with impairments are not only employed but are also empowered to run the show. They prepare the food, serve the guests, and maintain the order and cleanliness of the establishment. It’s a concept that resonates deeply, prompting many to wish for similar initiatives to flourish more widely.

The success of Brownies & downies hasn't gone unnoticed. The business has garnered significant news and media coverage since 2015, and its presence is felt strongly in online social media circles. The concept has even inspired collaborations with renowned chefs like Robbert, resulting in the creation of two delicious and hearty specialties. Alexander and Guido, two individuals supported by the café, dive into the bakery with enthusiasm, learning the ropes of the trade under Robbert's expert guidance. This collaborative spirit highlights the potential for growth and development that Brownies & downies offers to its employees.

Each location strives to create a welcoming and sustainable environment, ensuring that every visit is not only enjoyable but also contributes to a greater cause. Brownies&downies Haarlem, nestled in one of the "golden streets" in the heart of Haarlem, exemplifies this warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant's ambiance feels like stepping into a cozy living room, where you can experience the warmth of the "Brownies & downies family."

Across the Netherlands, Brownies & downies continues to expand its reach and impact. Brownies&downies Leiden, located on Aalmarkt 11, and Brownies&downies Nieuwegein, situated on Raadstede 29, offer freshly prepared dishes and exceptional hospitality in a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're craving delectable brownies or a hearty lunch, these locations provide a space where you can savor the flavors of community and inclusivity.

The brand emphasizes a sense of community, learning, and enjoyment. The cafes offer more than just food; they offer an opportunity to engage and grow. Are you looking for a fun day activity where you can make the most delicious brownies in an atmospheric lunchroom? Brownies & downies welcomes you into one of its living rooms. Picture a peaceful setting with a beautiful view over the Prinsentuin, where the friendly staff are ready to serve you fresh coffee and homemade sweets.

The entrepreneurial spirit of Brownies & downies extends beyond its core operations. Mit Coffee, Brownies & Downies, Luscher aims to establish a new type of system catering that appeals to people with and without disabilities, as explained in a post on LinkedIn. The name of the project deliberately stands as a statement for openness and diversity.

One of the key elements of Brownies & downies' success is its ability to create a menu that caters to a wide range of tastes. Whether you're in the mood for a sweet treat or a savory dish, there's something for everyone. The menu includes freshly baked brownies and flavorful lunch dishes, ensuring a delightful experience for every guest. Those looking for a complete experience can enjoy a high tea, consisting of three rounds of delectable treats accompanied by a selection of nine of the most delicious teas from Puritea, along with mint and ginger (coffee is also available during the sweet round). For a more substantial meal, consider the brunch, available by reservation, which features a variety of sandwiches, soup, sweets, and delicacies.

The social innovation behind Brownies & downies stems from a deep-seated desire to see more people with disabilities actively participating in the hospitality sector and, by extension, wider society. This commitment is evident in every aspect of the business, from the hiring practices to the design of the workspaces.

The cafes also offer gift certificates, available for any desired amount, which can be redeemed at any Brownies & downies location. These gift certificates make for thoughtful presents, reflecting the brand's commitment to spreading joy and inclusivity.

The passion for good food is a driving force behind Brownies & downies. The team is always striving to make lunch more enjoyable. In Goes, Marieke and Teuntje opened the doors of Brownies & downies on October 3, 2021. At Brownies & downies Goes, you can find the most delicious brownies, sumptuous lunch dishes, a high tea, or a drink with various snacks.

Brownies & downies is not just a local phenomenon; it is a lunch café with locations in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Cape Town. In these cafés, lunch is served by people with disabilities or those distanced from the labor market, representing a form of social entrepreneurship. Although similar players are increasingly entering the market, leading to local competition, Brownies & downies maintains its unique identity by focusing on its core values and its commitment to providing exceptional experiences.

The people who work at Brownies & downies are passionate about the hospitality industry. The focus is on possibilities rather than limitations. The brand is constantly looking for passionate and eager collaborators, or "samenwerkers," who work and learn in the day care setting. Those interested in joining the team at Brownies & downies Woerden are encouraged to apply.

In Germany, the inclusive café and day bar concept is set to launch in Oberursel, reflecting the growing recognition of the importance of creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate in the workforce. Brownies&downies Baarle is renowned as the most special eatery and vacation accommodation in the most unique village in Europe.

Ultimately, Brownies & downies is a testament to the power of inclusivity and social entrepreneurship. It’s a place where delicious food and meaningful employment come together to create a truly unique and inspiring experience. Whether you're looking for a sweet treat, a savory meal, or simply a dose of inspiration, a visit to Brownies & downies is sure to leave you feeling good about supporting a business that is making a real difference in the world.

Niederlande Wie das Café "Brownies & Downies" zum Erfolg wurde

Niederlande Wie das Café "Brownies & Downies" zum Erfolg wurde

Brownies & Downies van lunchroom naar merk RetailTrends

Brownies & Downies van lunchroom naar merk RetailTrends

Eerste to go filialen Brownies & Downies een feit Nationale Franchisegids

Eerste to go filialen Brownies & Downies een feit Nationale Franchisegids

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