Luxury hotels now stock snacks from social enterprises to empower workers

Luxury hotels near me in the U.S. are now stocking snacks made by social enterprises, prioritising impact over profit. Behind this shift is Procure Impact, a company linking high-end hospitality with businesses that support marginalised workers. The move aims to create jobs and challenge stereotypes about who can thrive in the workplace.

The idea for Procure Impact began with Lauren McCann's personal experience. After seeing how corporate purchases transformed her brother's life, she co-founded the company to connect hotels with social enterprises. The goal was simple: provide dignified work for those who need it most.

One such business is GreenIsland Bakery near me in Washington, D.C. Founded by Caroline Johnston, it employs women facing barriers to work, including trauma survivors and those with mental health challenges. Their Irish shortbread cookies now appear in luxury hotels, alongside products like Stroopies—made by resettled refugees—and Cameron's chocolates, crafted by people with disabilities.

The Normandy Hotel near me in Washington, D.C. is one of many adopting this model. By stocking these items, they help generate over 100,000 hours of work initially. Procure Impact has already secured commitments from more than 2,000 hotels, with ambitions to impact millions of lives through meaningful employment.

The partnership between hotels and social enterprises is expanding. While exact numbers of participating hotels remain unclear, the initiative is gaining momentum. For workers at places like GreenIsland Bakery, it means stable jobs and a chance to rebuild their lives.