PrideMerch exists because we work together.
Our foundation is partnership – especially close collaboration with non-profit organizations. We see ourselves not just as a shop, but as an integral part of the community. Our goal: to relieve organizations, gain visibility together, and live out true inclusion.
July 2022: The kick-off at CSD Bremerhaven
It all started in Bremerhaven, immediately after the first Bremerhaven CSD in 2022. The event was over, but one problem remained: a shoebox full of leftover Pride wristbands.
Normally, such remnants end up in the basement or in the trash. But for Thorsten, this box was not waste, but an opportunity.
The background: After almost 30 years in a workshop for people with disabilities, Thorsten desperately wanted to make the leap to the primary labor market.
The idea: We save the wristbands and set up a shop that takes the organizational stress (storage, shipping, risk) off organizations and at the same time creates inclusive workplaces.
Autumn 2022: The first partner believes in us
A good idea needs brave people to participate. This is where AIDS-Hilfe Bremen e.V. came into play.
The cooperation: They were the very first organization to trust Thorsten's vision. AIDS-Hilfe immediately got on board and gave our team crucial support. Without this trust, the launch of PrideMerch would not have been possible.
2023: The network grows (Bi+ Pride & CSD Bremen)
After AIDS-Hilfe made the start, our fair model quickly spread. Other organizations quickly realized that we could effectively take work off their hands.
The expansion: We took over the merchandise for other major players in the community, including CSD Bremen and Bi+ Pride in Hamburg.
The principle: We take care of everything – financial risk, storage, shop maintenance, and shipping. The organizations can concentrate on their political work, we do the rest.
July 2024: Relocation, Growth & Independence
Two years after the start, the shoebox finally became too small. In July 2024, we moved into our new premises at Konsul-Smidt-Straße 11.
The milestone: We professionally expanded and restructured the warehouse.
The goal: To organize processes in such a way that our "disabled team" can work as independently as possible. Clear order and fixed structures enable us to manage our daily work with self-responsibility.
Personal delivery: Hobby meets logistics
We combine work with true passion. Since many in our team are big fans of public transport, we have directly integrated this into our concept. Studying timetables and planning routes is fun for us – that's why we often deliver personally by bus and train in cities like Bremen, Bremerhaven, Wilhelmshaven, Verden, and Hamburg.
Before each delivery, we check: Is the connection suitable (public transport) and do we have enough time? If so, we take the opportunity to be mobile and deliver the order personally. If the timetable doesn't allow it, we send the package in the classic way.
Our Goal
We are far from finished. We will continue to grow, participate in even more CSDs, expand our public relations work, and include new products.
In doing so, we are consistently working towards our big goal: We want to become a recognized LGBTIQ inclusion company and prove that participation in working life works for everyone.
