Camilla is a self-managed emporium that's changing the game for sustainable consumption and the relationship between producers and consumers. Founded in 2018 in Bologna, this project is the brainchild of a group of local activists who wanted to create an alternative to traditional supermarkets, promoting solidarity economy and social justice.

The launch of Camilla marked a significant step towards an alternative consumption model, rooted in transparency, product quality, and the enhancement of human relationships. Today, Camilla boasts around 480 members who keep every aspect of the emporium running smoothly.

This direct involvement makes Camilla so much more than just a store—it's a true example of a participatory community and a solidarity economy, where decisions are made collectively, and every member has a say in shaping the cooperative's choices.

How does Camilla Work?

Work inside the cooperative is highly organized. Each shift lasts three hours, and different teams take turns to ensure continuous service. Key roles include cashiers, who manage sales and welcome new members, and the team in charge of fresh produce, responsible for both selling and purchasing fresh goods. Everything is designed to maximize efficiency and ensure that each member actively participates.

Camilla is organized into several operational teams, each with a specific role that contributes to the success of the project. The accounting team handles the cooperative's finances, ensuring full transparency. The communication team manages all internal and external communications, keeping everyone informed and involved. The products and producers team carefully selects suppliers, ensuring the best quality and sustainability standards.

Camilla’s Commitment to Sustainability

Camilla isn’t just a store; it's a project that embraces and supports an ethical and sustainable economy. Members are committed to choosing small local producers, organic products, and social cooperatives that share the same values. The supplier selection is meticulous and based on strict criteria of sustainability standards, combining ideals with concrete actions for a long-lasting positive impact.

A Community that Cares

But Camilla is much more than just a cooperative: it’s a true meeting place. Being part of the cooperative means joining an expanding community that shares common ideals and goals. Here, it's not just about grocery shopping—it's about working together for a better future, supporting the local economy, and creating a positive impact on society.

Camilla, the community emporium, stands out for its ability to build a genuine network of relationships, where everyone contributes to the common good. The core idea is to build connections, learn from one another, and share knowledge and experiences that enrich everyone involved.

This solidarity among members and the connection with local producers creates a virtuous cycle that goes beyond just purchasing goods. It’s about joining forces to build a stronger, more sustainable local economy.

In a Nuthsell

Camilla, the community co-op, is a solidarity purchasing network in Bologna, Italy, that serves as a concrete example of social and environmental justice. Through collective work, ethical supplier selection, and a commitment to sustainability, Camilla promotes a model of conscious consumption that benefits consumers, producers, and the environment alike. Camilla shows us that saying goodbye to the supermarket is increasingly possible—one shopping trip at a time!

By Valentina Bracciodieta