Attending the “Why Not Become a B Corp? Cutting Through the Noise” event on 14 May 2025 held at SETsquared Bath as part of Bath Digital Festival was an enlightening experience. Organised by Business on Purpose, the session delved into the tangible benefits of B Corp certification, particularly in areas of growth, talent acquisition, and customer engagement.
The workshop shifted the narrative from “Why B Corp?” to “Why not?”, offering a candid exploration of the value B Corp certification brings to businesses. It addressed critical aspects such as the return on investment, the commitment required, and the competitive edge gained through certification. The discussion also highlighted the new B Corp Standards released in April 2025, set to take effect in January 2026, providing timely insights for businesses considering certification.
One of the key takeaways was how B Corp certification positively impacts employees and customers. For employees, it fosters a purpose-driven culture, enhancing engagement and retention. And research suggests customers are increasingly drawn to businesses that demonstrate transparency, accountability, and a commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
The event also featured insights from companies that have undergone the certification process, sharing their experiences and the benefits they’ve reaped. This practical perspective provided attendees with a realistic understanding of what to expect and how to navigate the journey.
In summary, the event underscored that B Corp certification is more than a badge – it’s a strategic move towards building a resilient, responsible, and investable business. For those serious about aligning profit with purpose, the question isn’t “Why B Corp?” but “Why not now?”
This post is supported by the Future Ambition Board’s ‘Good Work’ working group. The group would love to hear the stories and experiences of existing B Corp certified organisations based in Bath and North East Somerset – if this is you, do get in touch!
If you would like to explore B Corp certification see https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/.