Het Goed is a major Dutch social enterprise committed to creating opportunities for people through reuse. They collect used items, ranging from furniture, mattresses, clothing, housewares, and books to electronics, to give them a second life through their network of 30 second-hand stores. By offering high-quality second-hand items at a fraction of the cost of new goods, Het Goed also provides affordable options to consumers, making sustainable practices accessible to a wider segment of the population.
Het Goed collects funiture and mattresses from multiple channels before preparing them for reuse including donations from businesses, individuals and collection and waste management contracts. Once items are received, Het Goed’s trained staff sort the items into different product streams and inspect each piece for its condition and usability. All of this is carried out by employees who are gaining skills and experience as part of Het Goed’s reintegration programs. All suitable items are then cleaned and restored, when necessary, and prepared for resale, including labelling, pricing and arranging for in-store or online presentation. For bulky purchases, Het Goed also offers delivery services, making reuse accessible and practical for customers.
The sorting and processing of reusable furniture and mattresses at Het Goed provides valuable employment to people who face barriers in the labour market, such as long-term unemployment, limited education or disabilities. Through their Werkwarenhuis (“Work Department Store”) model, participants receive structured guidance, learn professional and social skills, and rotate through roles in logistics, retail, transport and catering. When the employees are ready and meet their internal criteria, they are then supported in transitioning into regular employment. Het Goed works with local partners, including municipalities, institutions and social employment companies to strengthen these reintegration pathways.
Read more about Het Goed and their work in our report on Social Enterprises’ Role in Furniture and Mattress Circularity.
