Founded by Caritas organisations in Upper Austria, Carinthia and Vienna, the project aims to enable people with placement barriers to be sustainably integrated into the primary labour market.
To this end, the organisation operates several SPAR supermarkets, where jobseekers are comprehensively trained for a career in retail on a temporary basis. Supported by social pedagogues, the participants not only gain practical experience in the sales and checkout area, but also receive targeted support on their way back into working life.
SPAR supermarkets as a springboard for starting a career
An outstanding example of the success of this concept is the modernised SPAR supermarket in Alberndorf in der Riedmark. This local supermarket has been run by "Perspektive Handel Caritas gGmbH " for over 13 years. Following extensive refurbishment, it now offers a modern shopping experience on 443 square metres.
What makes it special: Nine permanent employees look after around ten apprentices who have difficulties entering the regular labour market due to personal or social challenges. They are given practical training and individualised support to prepare them for long-term employment.
"Your shopping - my chance!" - Trade with added social value
The project shows how social commitment and economic viability can go hand in hand. The close cooperation between Caritas and SPAR makes it possible to offer the unemployed not only a qualification, but also a real professional future.
#schongenial what is possible when you work together.
