Why B Corp certification is increasingly important for businesses

Sustainability, ethics and social responsibility are becoming increasingly important, and so it is good for companies to look beyond profits. Customers, employees and investors want to know what companies stand for and what they are doing for a better world. In this, a B Corp certification offers a powerful seal of approval that shows a company's positive impact. But what exactly does this certification entail, why is it so relevant and how can it also strengthen your brand?

What does a B Corp certification mean? 

The term B Corp stands for "Benefit Corporation." This is a certificate that companies receive when they meet strict requirements for sustainability, transparency, and social responsibility. B Corps must not only focus on profits, but also show that they have a positive impact on the environment, society, and their employees. More and more companies worldwide are getting this certification, from small startups to big names like Patagonia and Ben & Jerry's.

Unlike traditional labels, such as those at the product level, a B Corp certification is about the company as a whole. This means that all of a B Corp's activities and processes are aligned with the best possible balance between profit and purpose.

How do you get a B Corp certification? 

Companies seeking B Corp certification go through a comprehensive assessment process. This starts with the B Impact Assessment, an evaluation that looks at five main areas:

1. Governance: Management transparency and accountability.

2. Employees: Good working conditions and fair pay.

3. Customers: Impact of the products or services on customers and how they improve society.

4. Environment: Sustainable use of raw materials, waste management and CO2 emissions.

5. Community: Commitment to local community and ethical business practices.

To become certified, a company must score at least 80 out of 200 possible points in this assessment. The certification process can be intensive, but many companies see it as a valuable investment that helps them improve their impact and operations.

Why are more and more companies choosing B Corp certification? 

1. Responding to societal expectations 

The call for companies that act ethically and sustainably is growing louder. More and more consumers are consciously choosing companies that are transparent about their impact and take responsibility. Studies show that consumers, especially younger generations, are willing to pay more for sustainable products and services. A B Corp certification is a direct way to show that your company is committed to society and the environment.

2. Employee retention and talent attraction 

Employees increasingly want to identify with their employer's values. A B Corp certification indicates that a company is not only thinking about the bottom line, but also the broader impact on people and the planet. Employees feel proud and motivated to work for a company that takes its social responsibility seriously. This helps companies not only retain talent, but also attract new, like-minded professionals.

3. Access to a network of like-minded companies 

Companies that have received B Corp certification are part of a global network of like-minded individuals striving for positive change. This network provides access to valuable collaborations, knowledge exchange and business opportunities. By being connected to other B Corps, your company can benefit from joint initiatives and act together on social issues.

4. Long-term growth and customer loyalty 

A B Corp certification can help you build a loyal customer base that shares your values. Customers are attracted to companies that make an impact and demonstrate social responsibility. This can not only help develop strong brand loyalty, but also ensure long-term growth. Being transparent and embracing social causes creates an authentic connection with customers.

The benefits of B Corp certification 

B Corp certification brings a number of benefits beyond reputation alone. Let's look at some of the biggest benefits for companies:

• Increased customer trust: A B Corp certification increases customer confidence because they know the company is committed to transparency and responsible business practices.

• Competitive advantage: Being B Corp certified sets your company apart from competitors who have not (yet) taken this step. Certification provides a clear and recognized mark of quality for companies that value sustainability and ethics.

• Long-term sustainability: Companies that embrace B Corp values invest in sustainability, both financially and socially. This often makes them more resilient and attractive to investors looking for sustainable and future-proof companies.

• Positive business impact: B Corp companies strive for continuous improvement and are encouraged to further increase their social and environmental impact each year. It gives companies a positive focus and helps them grow without losing sight of their core values.

Corporate responsibility with NFC World 

At NFC World, we have sustainability and corporate social responsibility high on our list of priorities. Our NFC products, such as a digital business card, is an example of how technology can contribute to a more sustainable business environment. Our NFC cards allow businesses to network paperlessly, which not only saves costs but also directly contributes to lower carbon emissions. Moreover, our products are easily customizable and sustainable, allowing your business to switch efficiently without creating paper waste. Our online dashboard offers extensive possibilities to keep contact details up-to-date and generate leads without having to produce new cards. This is how we contribute to the digital transformation that fits a responsible and environmentally friendly future.

Choose sustainable innovations with NFC World 

A B Corp certification is all about sustainable choices, and that includes the technology you deploy. Digital NFC solutions, such as our NFC business cards, fit perfectly into this vision. With an NFC card, you share contact information at lightning speed, without wasting paper. And because data is easily editable via our dashboard, you not only save on reprints, but also reduce waste. At NFC World, we help companies with smart, efficient and sustainable networking options that truly contribute to a positive image. So do you want to network in a future-proof way? Then find out what NFC can do for your business.