Non-profit wholesaler

With four years in existence and a turnover of HUF 600 million, the Hungarian Food Bank has already proven that this globally known initiative has a place in Hungary as well. The Hungarian Food Bank was established as a non-profit organisation by 13 individuals four years ago. Their intention is to serve as an intermediary between the stocks of surplus food accumulating in Hungary and the people in need by gathering information and generating publicity. They collect donations in the traditional way and using help from volunteers, also collect surplus stocks from retail and processing units which would otherwise be destroyed. These stocks are then donated to local governments and charity organisations which deliver these to the people in need. They do not deliver donations directly to individuals. However, the operation of the logistic chain is a problem for them. As the chairman, Balázs Cseh has told us, they contacted companies which had already been familiar with this type of donation first, but were not received enthusiastically everywhere because some companies are reluctant to reveal the level of surplus stocks they have. On the other hand, getting rid of surplus stocks is also an expense which can be avoided by donating these to a charity. In stores which allow such stocks to be donated, donations from customers are also collected in the traditional way. On some occasions, up to 1 500 volunteers help in their work.