B Local champions ‘firms as force for good’
A new initiative is bringing together businesses in the North East to drive social and environmental responsibility and promote the benefits of ethical business practices.
The B Local North East group has launched to support the region’s growing network of 30 certified B Corporations and encourage others to join the global movement.
B Corp accreditation recognises companies meeting high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability, promoting the benefits of being a ‘business as a force for good’. The UK B Corp movement is rapidly growing, now encompassing over 2,300 certified companies nationwide.
Speaking of the launch of the B Local in the North East, Sam Oulton, engagement coordinator at B Lab UK, said: “Forming B Locals in regions such as the North East is central to our place-based approach for growing the B Corp community across the UK.
“B Locals exist as regional microcosms of the global B Corp movement, coming together to create connections, maximise collective impact, and enact change within their local economies.
“By establishing a B Local in the North East, we are providing a space to formalise B Lab UK’s support for the region, facilitating greater local cohesion and community building while empowering B Corps to pass on the message that it’s time for all companies to use business as a force for good.”
As one of 18 B Local groups across the UK, the North East initiative is voluntarily co-chaired by Gemma Graham, head of marketing at Robson Laidler Accountants, Mandy Barker, founder of Sail Creative, Jessica Williams - MBA, founder of Just Williams, and Suzanne McCreedy, chief commercial officer at UMi.
Gemma said: "We understand that many businesses are now looking at how they can support sustainable business growth.
“We're committed to building a community that is dedicated to social and environmental responsibility, demonstrating that there can be a balance between people, profit and the planet.
“As a group we are therefore exploring ways in which we can help raise awareness and grow the movement in our region.”
Her comments were echoed by co-chair Jessica, who added: “B Locals exist to create connections within the community, maximise the positive impact of local B Corps and raise awareness of the wider movement through a variety of different engagement opportunities - we are very excited to get started with our programme of ideas - starting this Winter.”
The group plans a series of events to showcase the impact of B Corp certification and strengthen the community of purpose-driven businesses in the area, as well as guide others on their journey toward accreditation.
Mandy added: “We have already successfully run several B Social events for social and environmentally conscious businesses over the past few years.
“Our status as a B Local will cement our dedication to ensuring these happen with regularity and make room for even more collaboration.
“We have lots of exciting ideas so watch this space!”
Suzi also added: “Being a B Local enables us to create more opportunity by connecting like-minded businesses around a shared vision of positive impact.
“By fostering collaboration and innovation among our peers, we can create real momentum and amplify our collective efforts, driving meaningful change that resonates and inspires others to embrace the principles of responsible business.”
The next B Social event will take place on Wednesday 4 December at Opencast HQ, Hoults Yard, Newcastle upon Tyne from 4pm onwards. Tickets can be booked via Eventbrite here.
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