For bread, cakes and cookies with a social mission.

In the corner building on Brede Hilledijk and Sumatrastraat, just behind Deliplein, they focus everyday on good bread and the people behind it. Since 2015, Bakkerswerkplaats has worked here with people who, for many reasons, have ended up on the sidelines. Together they bake honest, high quality breads, cakes and cookies for the neighborhood and for businesses. By now, dozens of team members have moved on to jobs or education. Founder Lisette Magis continues to expand the concept to make this possible in more places.

What makes Bakkerswerkplaats so social?
Lisette: “People work here who are looking to regain rhythm, confidence and perspective. Newcomers to the Netherlands, young people, retirees who want to stay active, people recovering from burnout or with a distance to the labor market. Everyone gets a place here to learn and take part. When you buy something in the shop, you are not just buying bread or cookies, you are directly supporting the growth of the people who make them. You can feel and taste that.”

How do you ensure quality?
“The team works with experienced bakers and supervisors. We never cut corners on ingredients. Everything revolves around taste, craftsmanship and fairness. Learning happens by doing. Trying, making mistakes and starting again. Step by step, this builds craftsmanship and confidence. We also work in a personal way, we listen to our customers and respond to their needs.”

For who is Bakkerswerkplaats?
“For local residents who drop by for something tasty, and for companies and organizations that want to buy consciously. Bakkerswerkplaats supplies hospitality businesses, museums and shops. We also make personalized cookies, such as the well known Feyenoord cookies, hutkoffers and containers. Different worlds meet here. Customers respond with enthusiasm and employees visibly gain confidence from that. Right where people and craftsmanship meet, something special happens.”