Whatever industry your business is in, today, the push towards sustainability and ethical business practices is gaining unprecedented momentum.
Amidst this shift, B Corp certification has emerged. B Corp is a symbol that a company meets the highest standards of verified performance, accountability, and transparency.
But what exactly does it mean to be a B Corp, and why should your business want to become certified?
Sustainability is More Than a Buzzword: Let’s Learn Why Your Business SHOULD Aim for B Corp Certification!
What is B Corp?
B Corp certification is awarded by B Lab, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to driving a global movement of people using business as a force for good. To achieve this certification, companies undergo a rigorous assessment that evaluates the impact on their people, customers, community, and the environment.
It’s a comprehensive process, demanding evidence of socially and environmentally responsible practices across all areas of their business.
It’s worth noting that achieving B Corp certification isn’t merely about reaching a benchmark. It’s about committing to continuous improvement and being part of a community that’s redefining success in business. It’s a declaration that your company seeks to be the best for the world.
Henry Nicholas has always been a sustainable business focusing on creating a positive impact on the environment and our communities. We chose to become B Corp certified to unite with a global community, support the collective drive for international change, and demonstrate to our employees, customers and local community that we are a business for good.
So how does a business become B Corp certified?
The journey to becoming a B Corp can be challenging but immensely rewarding. It begins with completing the B Impact Assessment, a detailed questionnaire that examines your company’s governance structure, environmental impact, people processes, community engagement, and customer service. The assessment is designed to help pinpoint areas of excellence and highlight improvement opportunities.
Following the assessment, your company must meet a minimum verified score and adapt its corporate governance structure to account for the interests of its people, the community, and the environment. The certification process culminates in signing the B Corp Declaration of Interdependence and paying an annual fee based on your revenue.
..But I hear you ask, what are the benefits of becoming B Corp certified?
Enhanced reputation and trust
If you run a business, you’ll know that reputation is everything. B Corp certification sets your business apart as a sustainability and social responsibility leader. It signals to clients, partners, and employees that your company is committed to higher standards of purpose and performance.
Attract and retain the brightest stars
We understand that recruiting and retaining top talent is tough. Competition to hire or retain the brightest stars is fierce. Your employer brand needs to shine, of course, but new recruits demand more.
Top talent is now seeking out companies that align with their values. In fact, this is also a common scenario seen in Gen-Z hires. B Corp certification can help your business attract and retain skilled professionals who are motivated by salary and the impact they can have through their work. This is particularly relevant in industries that thrive on innovation and creativity, where employees seek environments that foster a sense of purpose and contribution.
A wider network of purpose-driven support
Becoming a B Corp connects you with a global community of businesses committed to doing good. This network provides unparalleled opportunities for collaboration, learning, and growth. Whether it’s through partnering on projects that amplify your impact or sharing best practices for sustainable operations, the B Corp community is a rich resource for any company.
Driving Business Performance
It’s important to note that sustainability and profitability are not mutually exclusive. In fact, it’s already been identified that B Corp certification often leads to enhanced business performance. By prioritising ethical practices and sustainability, you can unlock new markets, innovate in response to environmental and social challenges, and build resilience against economic downturns.
Set a new standard in Your Industry
Becoming a B Corp-certified organisation is an opportunity to lead by example. It’s a chance to set new standards within your industry, inspiring others to follow suit and collectively drive a shift towards more ethical and sustainable business practices in your field.
Sustainability is much more than just a buzzword. It’s a critical component of long-term success and resilience. Becoming B Corp certified offers a tangible way to demonstrate your commitment not just to profit but also to your people, your community, and the planet.
At Henry Nicholas, we always strive to ‘do good’ and remain conscious of our activities and how we can positively impact our planet, community and people.
How we have supported our planet
In 2023, we participated in a wildflower restoration project where the team joined forces with conservationists Buglife and helped restore 1.9 hectares of wildflowers. Our work helped to promote insect pathways, provide wildlife habitats and improve biodiversity across local urban green meadows and parklands.
How we have supported our community
We also funded the planting of 100 trees in local Bristol schools and an education programme to teach children about woodland management and forestry skills.
How we have supported our people
Maintaining a clear focus on supporting and giving back to our local community each year, our team are awarded 20 hours of free time each year to
volunteer. They can choose any charitable cause that aligns with their personal values and passion. What’s more, Henry Nicholas has also partnered up with Carers Support Centre Bristol and South Gloucestershire and pledged to raise funds for multiple wellbeing activity days for local Young Carers.
