Opening Picnic

On Wednesday, May 22nd, several partners jointly launched Piknick, Vast-Goed's third location in Antwerp. The name Piknick refers to its predecessor, the world-famous Antwerp tool shop, which was housed at this location for over 100 years. But it also speaks volumes about what will be happening in this space from now on. It will be a vibrant hub where various partners share spaces for their offerings and a variety of activities. For example, you can visit The Comeback, a unique giveaway and secondhand shop owned by City Pirates, and you'll find the new home of the non-profit organization Kiddo's.

Alderman Tatjana Scheck: "What a joyous day, because Antwerp has another social incubator. Bringing such strong partners and organizations together under one roof is unique. They will strengthen each other and the neighborhood. Piknick is a place where everyone is welcome."

Vast-Goed creates social hubs in the city, where dreamers and doers share spaces and where volunteers, associations, and local professionals collaborate. These locations are used collectively by various partners and managed under the expert guidance of a permanent project team member. At Piknick, users can contact Tomas Uten, who facilitates everything.

Tomas Uten (Vast-Goed) : "We're very happy to open our doors to local residents and community groups. Over the past few months, we've welcomed a huge number of curious neighbors and passersby who want to get involved in our initiatives. We look forward to working together with the neighborhood."

Piknick's story kicks off with a great offer. You can now shop at The Comeback, a charity shop with high-quality secondhand sports and school equipment expertly operated by the City Pirates.

Michiel Devisschere (City Pirates): " To seize opportunities in life, the right equipment is essential. Lack of school and sports equipment shouldn't be a barrier to personal development. That's why we want to provide accessible equipment through The Comeback. Everyone can help. We'd like to thank our donors and partners."

The non-profit organization Kiddo's also operates here. They provide material, mental, and medical support to people and families with children, and offer a listening ear and much more.

Aicha Mazouzi (Kiddo's): " With the Piknick, we now have a sustainable, centrally located venue, allowing us to create more connections. Connections with the neighborhood, partners, volunteers, and the target group. Together, we make Borgerhout stronger."

Finally, the Piknick offers shared meeting and office facilities for various users. The space has tremendous potential, and we hope to welcome many more partners in the coming years, together with all our partners, to gradually expand this story for and by the neighborhood.

Besides this location on Turnhoutsebaan, Vast-Goed can also be found in Deurne Noord (Bazaar2100) and in Borgerhout at Koxplein (Kox2140). Local residents, associations, and other organizations can also use the shared spaces at these locations. New locations are also in the pipeline in Sint-Andries and Linkeroever.

Press contacts: