An impressive donation record is making headlines!
On 23 January 2026 it was announced that the dm Festessen-Initiative set a new donation record last December. An incredible €587,270 was raised to support people in existential need. This impressive sum shows how much power collective commitment can have and what a difference it can make when many people help together.
The history of the dm Festessen-Initiative
The dm Festessen-Initiative, now in its seventh consecutive year, has become an established part of the pre-Christmas season in Austria. Originally launched to bring a little warmth and a sense of community during the cold season, the initiative has grown into a significant social event. Each year, funds are raised through the generosity of dm customers that make it possible to offer needy people a festive three-course organic menu.
The secret to its success
Harald Bauer, Chairman of dm's management, emphasizes that the initiative's success is based on strong togetherness. More and more institutions are taking part, more dm employees are volunteering, and customers are showing generosity. These factors help the initiative set a new record year after year.
Bio-Menü made from regional ingredients
A special highlight of the dm Festessen-Initiative is the three-course organic menu prepared from regional ingredients. In cooperation with BIO AUSTRIA, the food is sourced from organic farmers in the region. This not only guarantees freshness and quality, but also supports local agriculture. More than 800 kilograms of organic Tafelspitz, 600 kilograms of organic potatoes and 500 kilograms of organic pumpkin were processed for this year's campaign.
Emotional feedback from the participating facilities
The feedback from the participating facilities is overwhelming. Many guests experience a special ray of light during the pre-Christmas season that gives them hope and a sense of community. A three-course menu with meat is pure luxury for many residents, and the gratitude is immense. Adelheid Karner from neunerhaus Vienna reports on the radiant faces of the guests who were able to enjoy the festive meal.
An effort that has a lasting impact
Not only guests benefit from the dm Festessen-Initiative. dm employees who use their „mehr vom leben tag" to help on site also take away positive memories from their commitment. Whether cooking, decorating or serving meals—the volunteers contribute decisively to the success of the initiative.
The future of the dm Festessen-Initiative
The future of the dm Festessen-Initiative looks promising. Participation grows every year, and people's willingness to donate remains unbroken. In view of the current economic situation and the increasing number of people in need, the importance of such initiatives is greater than ever. The dm Festessen-Initiative will continue to play an important role in the coming years in helping people in need in Austria.
Conclusion
The dm Festessen-Initiative is an impressive example of how much can be achieved when people work together. With a record sum of €587,270, the initiative sends a strong message of solidarity and shows that even small contributions can make a big difference. The cooperation with BIO AUSTRIA and the support of local organic farmers also help ensure that the campaign benefits not only people but also the environment.
The future of the dm Festessen-Initiative looks bright, and one can only hope that many people will continue to benefit from this wonderful campaign in the years to come.
