Reusing furniture and mattresses can significantly contribute to job creation and social inclusion.
A prime example of this is Center Ponovne Uporabe (CPU), the pioneering social enterprise that launched Slovenia’s first-ever reuse centre. Established to promote sustainability, CPU operates differently from typical reuse stores in the region by collecting, preparing, and reselling items directly at its locations, extending the life of furniture and mattresses.
Most of the furniture and mattresses received by CPU come from direct donations to their reuse centres and from what they collect from public waste management centres, the largest amount of collection being their location in Ljubljana. In 2025, they launched public door-to-door collections, focusing primarily on furniture. Once part of their inventory, staff prepare these items for reuse through necessary repair and cleaning before they are resold in their stores.
CPU sells both furniture and mattresses at all four of their locations. Furniture typically sells quickly once it is on store display, making CPU’s collection activities vital for ensuring a steady supply of second-hand stock. By contrast, mattresses sell more slowly and unsold items are discounted to encourage sales.
At the heart of CPU’s mission is its commitment to social impact. As part of their workforce, CPU employs people who face barriers in the labour market, particularly individuals with special needs. These people receive prior training, where they learn the basic processes for preparing these bulky waste streams for reuse, including how to deep clean (mattresses), store and price them. In 2025, they have 36 full-time roles, of which over half are based on work integration contracts.
Read more about CPU and their activities in our report on Social Enterprises’ Role in Furniture and Mattress Circularity.
