We achieve B Corp status

We have become the UK’s largest law firm – and first outside London – to achieve B-Corp status, joining a select group of businesses to be certified globally.

We will use the accreditation as a framework to continue to evolve and deliver our ESG strategy. In becoming a B Corp, we join a global network of 5,000 businesses – including over 800 in the UK – independently recognised for being purpose-driven, committed to creating benefits for all stakeholders, and operating as a force for good.

Certifying body B Lab is a not-for-profit network transforming the global economy to benefit all people, communities, and the planet. Other B Corp-certified businesses include Patagonia, Ben & Jerry’s and Innocent Drinks.

Alongside all accredited organisations, we have adopted the ‘triple bottom line’ framework for evaluating business success – an industry standard introduced by B Lab – which means the treatment of people and planet are adopted as measures of success, alongside profit.

Our accreditation as a B Corp comes just weeks after we announced plans to invest £50k to kickstart a new project that will restore more than 400 hectares of internationally important peatland in the Yorkshire Dales. It also follows our commitment to the United Nation’s ‘Race to Net Zero’ campaign in 2021 when we joined Business Declares a Climate Emergency, a not-for-profit collective comprising businesses committed to addressing the climate emergency.

Our CEO Robert White said: “Achieving B-Corp status is a fantastic achievement. One that reflects our commitment to delivering on our purpose, ‘to demonstrate that business can bring about positive change’; and one that all our colleagues can be extremely proud of.

“Businesses across the world are switching on to the B Corp movement, which represents and aligns with how we want to act as a business. As a purpose-led, values-driven organisation that is guided by our mission to make the difference, for our clients, our people and the broader communities we serve.

“Achieving B Corp status represents a significant milestone on the start of our ESG journey, and we are looking forward to the huge opportunity to tap into the knowledge base of the B Lab network, and to contributing to the development of the B Corp movement in the coming years.

“To be the first UK law firm outside London to be accredited is a privilege and I am hopeful that we will be joined by many others, in the near future.”