In this blog, I share special places to shop, eat and drink in the city of Breda. These unique locations all make a positive impact in their own way by paying attention to the environment, animals or people, for example. When visiting these places, it is not only the unique experience that makes it worthwhile, you also contribute to a better world. And that feels good!
1. Concept store Brandpunt - Heronstraat 16
A dynamic mix of coffee, shop and creativity. That is Brandpunt in Breda. The coffee served here is Moyee's so-called fairchain coffee. Fairchain means a fair balance between coffee producer and coffee drinker. So no exploited farmers and also no extremely high prices for a cup of coffee, because things like expensive marketing campaigns are omitted at Moyee. Tastes better anyway. At Brandpunt, you can also go for a cup of tea and this too has a story. The tea comes from Het Theezaakje, which means 100% organic tea, made with people who find it difficult to join the job market.
Besides a good and fair cup of coffee or tea, you can also shop at Brandpunt for unique products and special design. The majority of the products are homemade. On site, in the real laser lab, most products can even be custom-made personally. Again, an excellent place to find an original gift. Brandpunt is also a meeting place for creative entrepreneurs. There is a regular "Creative Coffee"; a time to meet other creatives and entrepreneurs, exchange ideas and network.
2. Blossom Vintage - Willemstraat 21
Bloesem Vintage in Breda is one of those vintage shops where you walk in and immediately think: yes, I want to try everything on. No cluttered racks full of grab-and-go items, but twelve(!) themed corners where everything is nicely hung by colour and style.
Owner Kay has a great feel for fashion. Every week, she scores the most beautiful vintage pearls - think blazers, blouses and trousers that are so fresh and modern that you forget they already have a life behind them. And what she can't find, she simply makes herself. In their own atelier, they transform luxurious vintage fabrics into unique garments you won't see anywhere else.
If you are in doubt about what looks good on you, you can also come here for a colour analysis. Super fun (and useful) to do - and afterwards you shop with a fresh look.
3. Plant shop The Green Submarine - St. Annastraat 8
If you feel like making your home a bit greener, you should really drop by The Green Submarine. This plant shop is a paradise for anyone who loves indoor plants. Owner Monique is happy to help you choose, care for and maintain your green friends. Whether you are looking for a small cutting or a big eye-catcher, you will find it all here.
What makes this shop extra special is its personal touch and sustainable character. Monique carefully compiles the assortment with an eye for the environment and works with local entrepreneurs. Besides plants, you will also find organic plant food, natural pesticides and fun gifts.
4. STEK - Veilingkade 9A
Your sustainable shopping session in Breda is not complete without stopping by STEK. This creative hotspot is full of sustainable entrepreneurs and is tucked away in Breda's harbour district. Walking around here, you immediately feel it: something special is happening here.
You will find some 25 mini-companies, all with a green heart. From PlaSTiEK, where they turn plastic waste into something new, to Elemental where you can do your shopping without packaging. And oh, don't forget Nachtbrood - they bake sourdough in a wood-fired oven and it smells so good that you automatically linger.
Want to learn more? There are regular workshops and markets where you can get started yourself. Super inspiring if you want to live more sustainably, but don't know where to start.
These unique places in Breda are all worth a visit. You also contribute to a better world by supporting these shops. They are small things but they are so nice and important. So go explore, discover and contribute! Have fun.
Love,
Laura