When snack producer Estrella was looking for a new restaurant provider for its lunch restaurant, Lärjeåns Kök & Trädgårdar (Kitchen & Gardens) was a natural choice after Estrella’s positive experience of having several conferences at Lärjeån.
Lärjeåns Kök & Trädgårdar works with people who have previously struggled to access the labour market. They run a commercial garden and plant hotel and offer lunchtime catering and conference facilities. Lärjeåns Kök & Trädgårdar now employs 12 people, and a further 20 are undergoing job training. All profits are reinvested in the company to create more jobs.
The Lärjeåns Kök & Trädgårdar co-operative started in 2011 as one of 12 Vägen ut! co-operatives. The Vägen ut! co-operative is Sweden’s largest franchise of social enterprises aimed at labour market integration. Its main focus is the sale of environmentally friendly goods and services.
