magdas is a pioneer of Social Business, combining economic success with social responsibility. With projects like magdas HOTEL and magdas ESSEN, the company creates meaningful jobs for disadvantaged groups and promotes sustainability.
magdas, founded by the Caritas of the Archdiocese of Vienna in April 2012, is an exemplary example that economic success and social action are not opposites. The company follows the concept of Social Business, initiated by Nobel Prize winner Muhammad Yunus. Here, the focus is on solving social challenges, and all profits are reinvested to achieve these goals[2][5].
magdas encompasses several business areas, all aimed at creating meaningful training and job opportunities and opening future prospects for people who often have no chance:
Sustainability is a central aspect of magdas. The large kitchen of magdas ESSEN in Vienna-Liesing has been awarded 961 out of a possible 1,000 points in the ÖGNB sustainability certification, making it one of the most ecologically sustainable commercial buildings in Austria. Ingredients are primarily sourced from Austrian producers to strengthen local businesses and secure jobs. A special focus is placed on seasonal and organically grown products as well as high-quality meat from Austria[1][4].
The building of the magdas kitchen is an example of innovative environmental technology and sustainable architecture. Components such as discarded enamel pots and old door frames are reused, and a sophisticated energy reuse concept contributes to ecological sustainability[1].
magdas connects people from different cultural backgrounds, professional skills, and social origins. The strengths and talents of the employees are the greatest asset of the company, and their social participation is the real profit. magdas enables long-term unemployed individuals, people with disabilities, and migrants to gain access to the labor market and lead self-determined lives[2][5].
Through these approaches, magdas demonstrates that it is possible to combine economic success with social responsibility and that this represents a meaningful addition to the existing service offerings of social organizations.
