SCOTLAND has a “disproportionate number” of businesses honoured as the “Best for the World” by a prominent certification scheme.
The B Corporation scheme, which certifies firms meeting high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability, has announced its 2022 list of the companies performing best across the globe.
The “B Corp” certification (logo shown below) is conferred by international non-profit B Lab and has been awarded to around 800 firms in the UK.
Of these, 165 have been recognised as some of the highest impact businesses globally in this year’s “Best for the World” list.
In the UK, Scotland, London, and the South East are “Best for the World” hotspots – home to a disproportionate number of honourees compared to the number of B Corps in the region, B Lab said in a press release.
Scottish B Corps make up 4.5% of The UK B Corp Community, yet they represent 8.3% of the UK Best for the World honourees. B Lab said this demonstrates how Scottish companies are “championing business as a force for good”.
Among the Scottish brands to be honoured is Brewgooder. The Clydebank-based beer firm made the list for the third time.
Brewgooder said it was on track to contribute £100,000 to high-impact projects this year, with funds to be shared among several key areas, including clean water and sanitation, food provision, reducing inequalities, and climate action.
The company also said that its IPA collaboration with online food channel Twisted is on course to provide more than 75,000 fresh food items to local communities by the end of the year.
Alan Mahon, founder of Brewgooder, said: “We are extremely humbled to be recognised by B-Corp for our commitment to community-based sustainability projects for the third year in a row. To be listed among some of the most inspiring brands and companies from across the planet is an honour and something which we are incredibly proud of.
“Without a shadow of a doubt this has been our most impactful year ever, and so, to receive this accolade now means more than ever. We are driven by our passion and purpose to help people around the world and are looking forward to continuing to strengthen our work on a global scale.”
Chris Turner, executive director at B Lab UK, said: "B Corporations are proving that businesses flourish when they are committed to aligning the interests of all stakeholders: society, the environment, and their shareholders.
“Best for the World is the B Corp movement’s opportunity to spotlight the businesses who are pioneering business as a force for good.
“While there’s much more to be done to transform our economy to benefit all people, communities and the planet, the UK is becoming one of the world’s hotspots for better business. It’s a proud moment for our community, and an opportunity to challenge ourselves to go even further, faster.”
