Local Bergen businesses take a stand for Palestine

In Bergen, several small businesses have chosen to publicly support Palestine by joining the Apartheid-Free Zone initiative. Shops and cafés displaying this sticker show that they do not sell products that support the Israeli government, taking an active stance in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Politics on the menu

At Møllendal Fetevare, this commitment is valued highly by staff, bringing their morals into the workplace. Head chef Stine Storksen explains the importance of their approach:

– Food and drink are deeply political. Individuals’ voices, principles, and money matter. We make sure that all produce used in the restaurant is not profiting the Israeli government, which is causing unfairness in Gaza.

The restaurant follows the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) boycott list and has replaced Coca-Cola with Palestine Cola, which donates 100 percent of its profits to humanitarian efforts in Palestine. Storksen remembers a previous interaction with a customer:

– A group of mums and young kids came in asking for a Coke Zero. After explaining why we offer Palestine Cola, one of the mums exclaimed it was «snill-cola», which means «nice-cola».

– Allyship is incredibly important, says Stine Storksen.

An easy decision

Heim, located near the harbor, joined the initiative over a year ago. Co-owner Eirik Hitland Johannessen described the decision as straightforward:

– It was an easy decision. I hope the genocide and suffering will soon come to an end.

Heim sells Scandinavian design and interior products and emphasizes both local craftsmanship and support for humanitarian causes.

Symbolic action

Nobel Bopel, a café and workspace in Bergen, joined the Apartheid-Free Zone initiative, making minimal changes to its stock. Co-owner Marte Teigen described the decision as a «no-brainer», noting that the only adjustment was stopping the sale of Coca-Cola, as the café did not carry other Israeli products.

The café’s staff express their solidarity with Palestine in several ways. Co-owner Lorena Bustos Reksten sells merchandise, including Stop the Genocide T-shirts and tote bags, with proceeds going to Palestinian aid. She is also active on social media, speaking out about the conflict.

– Our staff often wear these T-shirts at work to make our stance known, Teigen added.

Nobel Bopel is a popular spot for social gatherings and study sessions. Teigen highlighted the café’s atmosphere and offerings:

–  It is important that we use our platform to bring awareness and action to what is happening in Gaza.

The businesses encourage customers to use apps such as No Thanks to check which products are included on the BDS boycott list. Some also participate in events such as the annual Christmas market for Gaza in Bergen, which combines holiday shopping with fundraising for Palestinian humanitarian efforts.