Relaunching a traditional preferred employment model, creating attractive entrepreneurial opportunities

Monopolverwaltung in Austria revamped tobacco store licenses for entrepreneurs with disabilities. By 2024, 1,218 stores were managed by individuals with disabilities under an EU-compliant process.

The Austrian agency Monopolverwaltung has been managing the tobacco monopoly in Austria for over 240 years; and while it originally controlled all aspects of the monopoly, since 1995 the agency has increasingly focused on awarding tobacco store (‘Trafik’) licenses to individuals with disabilities. In 2022 this initiative was revitalized with active encouragement and consultancy, alongside the implementation of a transparent EU-compliant licensing process. By mid-2024, 1,218 entrepreneurs with disabilities successfully operated their own Trafik.

Problems Targeted

Persons with disabilities face high unemployment rates, compounded by a lack of awareness regarding entrepreneurial opportunities available to them.

Solution, Innovation and Impact

Monopolverwaltung recently celebrated its 240th anniversary, and the system of preferentially licensing new Trafik (tobacco store) owners with disabilities is just as old, originally providing soldiers with disabilities an opportunity to earn an income. In 2013, Monopolverwaltung substantially redesigned this policy, making it more attractive for entrepreneurs with disabilities, based on the Austrian Tobacco Monopoly Act. Only individuals with a disability level of at least 50 per cent can apply for a Trafik license. If multiple applicants apply, the concession is awarded to the candidate with the highest need, using a transparent scoring system. Applicants must pass an aptitude test and undergo training courses and “days of practice”. The new policy was developed with input from disability associations and representatives. The president of the largest disability association in Austria is a member of the selection commission and sits on the supervisory board of Monopolverwaltung. Tobacconists in need receive financial benefits, and the fund is sustainably financed. Monopolverwaltung, which oversees the sale of sensitive products, constantly updates the Trafiken model with new products while promoting responsible smoking and regulating tobacco sales.

Funding, Outlook and Transferability

The average Trafik generates an annual revenue exceeding €2 million. Over the last ten years some 1,100 people with disabilities have started a career as self-employed entrepreneurs through this policy. (Zero Project Awardee 2025)

Pictures

By mid-2014, 385 women with disabilities were running a “Trafik” in Austria.

By mid-2014, 385 women with disabilities were running a “Trafik” in Austria.

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