Consuming locally means consuming sustainably. That’s the message from Kaf Lokal, a café-boutique in the heart of Esch-sur-Alzette. On the initiative of the Centre d’Initiative et de Gestion Local (CIGL) in Esch-sur-Alzette, the Kaf Lokal Societal Impact Company (SIS) opened its doors in 2021. The café was seen as an ideal way of revitalising the rue d’Alzette while respecting the principles of a circular and solidarity-based economy. Mission accomplished with flying colours!
The café is alive and well and has built up a loyal clientele. “We feel like a family here. With our customers, our suppliers and our colleagues,” says Paula Fernandes, manager of Kaf Lokal. In her opinion, working in a SIS encourages you to meet other people. “As an SIS, we’re closer to people,” she explains, “and that proximity means we can get our messages across more effectively. And I can see that people like coming here and eating locally. She continues, “consuming locally means looking to the future and consuming responsibly.”
The curious can join the regulars at Kaf Lokal and enjoy a range of snacks including quiches, salads, soups and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Most of the ingredients used in the kitchen are local, and some are hard to find in Luxembourg. The organic vegetables come from the ‘Den Escher Geméisguart’ and ‘Kalendula’ farms, two ecological projects run by the CIGL in Esch, which employ and train people in market gardening.
As well as the restaurant section, there’s a shop selling a wide variety of items. What they all have in common is that they are all locally sourced. Pasta, vinegar, fresh juices, alcohol, cosmetics, soaps and a host of other products and creations are all on display. “The products come from associations, producers or designers who don’t have the means to produce in large quantities,” explains Paula, “we want to be a showcase for them and their products by selling them on the spot. This philosophy is reflected throughout the shop, which is decorated with works by local designers. This friendly meeting place also organises and hosts vernissages, awareness-raising workshops and exhibitions.
This SIS works like a chain of solidarity. “The most important resource in the world is people,” elaborates Paula, “and so companies like this can make a difference.” For Paula, the Impact Luxembourg label is a successful way of promoting the circular economy. She explains that the players and institutions involved in a societal impact company are part of a chain of mutual aid: “We give help and we will also receive it – it’s the circular economy in action!
Kaf Lokal is open every day of the week, except Sundays, from 10am to 6pm. The friendly team will be delighted to welcome you for a coffee, a bite to eat or a spot of shopping. Visit http://kaflokal.lu/ for more information and to book your table for a delicious local lunch.
