Peter Scholliers
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Tue 28.1020:00 - 21:30De Vooruit, GentDe Vooruit - Foyer Theaterzaal
- Welcome by Paule Verbruggen, director of AMSAB-ISG
- Conversation with author Peter Scholliers
- Panel discussion with Hendrik Defoort and Laura Nys
- Drinks/book sales by De Groene Waterman and signing session
145 years ago, a group of young socialists from Ghent embarked on a bold experiment: the cooperative society Vooruit. Contrary to everyone's expectations, it not only survived but became a model for all of Europe.
What started as a small bakery mechanized, expanded, and was joined by clothing stores, cafés, a coal trade, pharmacies, and grocery stores. The cooperative attracted thousands of working-class families with its striking advertising, expanding offerings, and remarkable architecture. It provided a warm sense of home to people who had previously barely counted.
In the book 'Vooruit, comrades!', author Peter Scholliers explains the emergence of the consumer society. How we dress, relax, stay healthy, heat our homes, celebrate, and eat today is all connected to the crucial years when the cooperative sprang into action.
On Tuesday, October 28, Scholliers will engage in conversation with Hendrik Defoort and Laura Nys.
"Een meesterlijke analyse van het commerciële systeem achter de coöperatie Vooruit. Onderbelicht, maar bijzonder relevant. Gebaseerd op minutieus bronnenonderzoek en doorspekt met vele anekdotes. Een absolute aanrader."
Paule Verbruggen, directeur AMSAB-ISG, hoofdredacteur Brood & Rozen
