Synallois

The Solidarity Economy Cooperative “Synallois” began operating in Athens in the autumn of 2011. We chose to work collectively, putting into practice alternative economic models that aim for the qualitative fulfilment of human needs, solidarity-based cooperation, and equal relationships.

Our main activity is alternative and solidarity trade, primarily in the food sector. Our key partner in this effort is the coffee-producer cooperatives of the Zapatista movement in Chiapas, Mexico. We also import products from other cooperatives and producer movements of the Global South, through our collaboration with the social cooperative Libero Mondo in Italy and the organisation El Puente in Germany.

For the distribution of products we rely on an alternative network across Greece, made up of solidarity economy initiatives as well as small shops and cafés. At our premises in Thiseio — which serves as a shop, distribution hub, and event/meeting space — we also host domestic products from collective ventures, small producers and processors, with whom we build direct and lasting partnerships.

Our internal structure is that of a workers’ cooperative, aiming for maximum equality among us. We are not the owners of an “alternative business,” but a group of people who self-manage their work. What inspires us is the sense of belonging to the global movement of the Social and Solidarity Economy, which works every day to transform this world into a more beautiful, just, and sustainable place.

Co-Fund’s funding has helped us enormously to raise the amount required to import the Zapatista coffee in 2023. Banks rarely lend to ventures like ours, and when they do, the terms are burdensome. By contrast, Co-Fund’s processes were clear, transparent, and solidarity-driven. We hope that, with the support of all of us, it will continue to grow — and with it, a social and solidarity-based financing sector in our country.

Synallois Cooperative

Nileos 35, 118 51 Athens
+302103456581

Website: www.synallois.org
Facebook: facebook.com/synallois