Why the foundation was established
The Sal Meijer Heritage Foundation was founded on the belief that the name Sal Meijer is more than just a trade name. It represents a personal history, a life's work, and a special place within the culinary and cultural heritage of the Netherlands, and particularly within the Jewish community of the Netherlands.
After Sal Meijer's death in 1994, his name has lived on in the collective memory. Over the years, however, it has become apparent that this name is increasingly used separately from the original context, values, and quality for which Sal Meijer himself stood.
The foundation was therefore established by the Meijer family to safeguard and record this heritage and to pass it on to future generations in an honest manner.
Our mission
The mission of the Sal Meijer Heritage Foundation is to protect, preserve and promote the cultural, culinary and historical heritage associated with Sal Meijer (1906–1994).
We do this by:
• collecting and managing historical material such as photographs, menus, documents and publications;
• documenting the history of the original sandwich shop and its significance;
• making this heritage accessible through publications, educational initiatives and digital archives;
• promoting careful and respectful handling of the name, image and legacy of Sal Meijer.
The foundation is not-for-profit and acts solely from a cultural and historical interest.
Our vision
We believe that heritage does not equate to a brand , and that history cannot be reduced to a marketing tool.
The name Sal Meijer represents a time, a community, and a personal legacy. This meaning requires context, nuance, and respect.
When heritage is used exclusively for commercial purposes, there is a risk that the original story becomes blurred or distorted.
The foundation therefore stands for the following principle:
heritage ≠ brand ≠ franchise .
Our vision is that Sal Meijer's story will only be done justice when told from a historical perspective, without confusion about continuity, family ties, or commercial interests.
What we protect
The Sal Meijer Heritage Foundation protects:
• the historical context of Sal Meijer and his life's work;
• archive material and images related to his person and business;
• the cultural significance of his enterprise within society;
• the integrity of his name and memory.
What we are not
The Sal Meijer Heritage Foundation:
• does not operate a catering business;
• is not a franchise organization;
• does not sell products or services;
• is not a commercial enterprise.
The foundation is completely separate
from current commercial activities that
take place under the name Sal Meijer
and has no involvement in them.