What does B Corp mean?

You may have seen ‘B Corp’ on websites, adverts or packaging. But what does that really mean and why could it be important to you?

For starters, the ‘B’ in ‘B Corp’ stands for ‘Benefit’ and by this they mean ‘benefit for all’.  B Corps try to do business differently.  Instead of just focusing on profit, we prioritise everyone which has a stake or interest in our existence - we call these our stakeholders.

Who are our stakeholders?

You!  All our clients are stakeholders.  So are our staff, suppliers, investors and regulators.  But we also throw the net more widely.  We consider the footprint our business leaves on the local, national and global communities in which we operate, as well as our environmental impact.  

This holistic approach helps redefine how we measure our success. Of course, we exist to make money but feel strongly this should not be at the expense of others.  This wider duty of care is enshrined in our constitution and informs everything we do.

So, if all this is important to you, as a B Corp you can be assured it’s also important to us.

Is it easy to become and stay a B Corp?

It isn’t enough to simply declare we are ‘good eggs’.

To become a B Corp, we must go through a rigorous certification procedure with B Lab - a global non-profit organisation promoting business as a force for good.  We need to evidence that we meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.  This is a lengthy and tough process.

We were very proud to be awarded B Corp status in 2022 but were not allowed to rest on our laurels. We are committed to continuous improvement and publish an annual report so everyone can see how we’re doing - just look at our latest report below!  We also need to recertify with B Lab’s evolving standards every three years.

Having the B Corp badge proves to you we aren’t full of bluster - we walk the walk.

Can any company become a B Corp?

In theory yes, although some industries are ineligible such as fossil fuels.  

Currently there are c8,400* B Corps across 97 countries and 162 industries.  From toilet roll to ice cream to Bespoke Advice, we are a diverse bunch but share a common goal.

In the UK we have just reached 2000 B Corps.  It seems like a lot, but in context, there are estimated to be 5.5 million** private sector companies in the UK.  There are only 140* financial services B Corps across the UK.

We are a relatively rare but growing breed and as far as we’re concerned, the more responsible businesses the better.

What are the benefits of being a B Corp?

Well, it’s what we passionately believe in so that’s a big plus.  But there are other bonuses.

• We want to attract and retain the best people who are motivated, feel proud to work for us and share our values.  

• We want to build trust and loyalty among our clients who value our business practices.

• Becoming a B Corp means joining a global community of like-minded businesses offering opportunities for collaboration, networking, and sharing best practices.   The B Corp network can provide valuable support and resources to help us grow and improve our impact.

• Whilst our primary focus is on social and environmental impact, ethical practices can lead to more efficient operations and reduced risks for us as a business.

As more companies recognise the importance of using business as a force for good rather than solely focusing on the bottom line, B Corp certification is valuable recognition for companies like Bespoke Advice seeking to make a measurable positive impact on people, planet and our wider communities.

*B Lab website data obtained January 2025

**DBT Business Population estimates 2024 (January 2024)