From Gouda to Manila: Our Journey
From the markets of the Netherlands to the heart of the Philippines, our stroopwafels combine time-honored Dutch craft with locally sourced ingredients that support farmers and communities.
From the start, the concept was never simply about recreating a classic Dutch treat. It was designed to align quality food with meaningful, responsible business practices that reflect the values of its founders and the communities they aim to serve.
Het Stroopwafel Huis, operator of Stroop & Zo, was founded by Toine and Stephanie Schouten, a Dutch-Filipino couple based in Noord-Brabant, the Netherlands. Their vision is to build a brand that is community-driven, sustainable, and rooted in purposeful entrepreneurship.
Their Christian faith serves as a quiet foundation for their business decisions, inspiring a leadership style centered on compassion, integrity, and service. For them, running a business is not only about growth, but also about responsibility — to people, to purpose, and to the communities they serve.
Supporting Local, Sourcing with Intention
One of the brand’s core commitments is to source ingredients locally through partnerships with Filipino farmer cooperatives. This supports Philippine agriculture, promotes ethical sourcing, and helps build more resilient and sustainable supply chains.
Each stroopwafel is made fresh, using high-quality ingredients that carry local value. The goal is not only to offer a great product but also to contribute to a broader effort to uplift small-scale producers and create fair economic opportunities.
The commitment to sustainability also extends to packaging. Stroop & Zo uses eco-conscious materials, thoughtfully chosen to reduce environmental impact and support a cleaner future.
Creating Opportunities Through Partnership
Stroop & Zo’s approach to social impact goes beyond ingredients. The brand partners with Young Focus Philippines, a Dutch-founded NGO working with children and youth in Tondo, Manila. This collaboration focuses on creating access to work and skills development for young adults who are often overlooked by traditional employment pathways.
Through this partnership, Young Focus graduates are offered employment and hands-on training in various aspects of the business. These roles are designed to build confidence, experience, and long-term stability, while allowing each individual to contribute meaningfully to the team.