We are now part of a vibrant community of B Corp businesses from all corners of the globe, united by a shared belief in conducting business responsibly.
This certification required us to undergo a thorough examination of every aspect of our business. Looking into every nook and cranny of our operations, scrutinising our practices under a microscope, to ensure we met the most stringent standards of social and environmental performance.
In this blog post, we will delve into the significance of B Corp Certification, our journey towards achieving it, and how it aligns with our commitment to being a clean and green business.
The Significance of B Corp Certification.
Becoming a Certified B Corp Business is more than just a badge of honour. It signifies our unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on every business level, from our clients, and employees through to partnerships and suppliers. A true testament to our unwavering dedication to sustainable practices and ethical business operations.
B Corporation businesses go above and beyond to meet strict standards of environmental performance, social responsibility, transparency, and accountability. While demonstrating their commitment to balancing profit with purpose.
Applying for B Corp snapshot in numbers:
- B Labs has reported that about 40% of applications are successful.
- Currently, there are over 6000 Certified B Corporations in 80+ countries and 150+ industries according to B Corporation as of October 2023
- The completion time varies for each company based on their existing setup and the demand for assessment, therefore, no exact timeframe can be given.
Positive Business impacts report from implementing B Corp:
- B Corp Certification helps your company stand out and stand by your mission.
- B Corp SMEs outperform their UK peers on average in employee retention, engagement, and diversity. Source: B Labs
- On average B Corp SMEs in the UK outperform their peers in innovation. Source: B Labs
- B Corp SMEs on average outperform their UK Peers in faster growth in turnover and employee headcount. Source: B Labs
Our Journey Towards B Corp Certification.
Both EDWPS and sister company Eight Plus have always strived to reduce their collective environmental impact while providing exceptional print and mailing solutions.
“Why did we go for B Corp? It was the obvious next step as part of our overall sustainable business plan. Our business operating model was already underpinned with the four ISO accreditations we hold, plus carbon neutral and cyber essentials, which was a great foundation to put us on the right path towards B Corp certification.”
Lance Hill, MD of EDWPS & Eight Plus.
Lance Hill MD of EDWPS and Eight Plus, alongside Caroline Varley, Commercial Director of Eight Plus took on the challenge of being our B Keepers. Steering us through every step of the process. From the assessment evaluation of our performances across various areas, including governance, workers, community, and environment. Through implementing and innovating practices.
Interested in understanding more about these key pillars of B Corporation as well as getting into the nitty gritty details of our report? Delve into our B Corporation Report and keep your eyes peeled for our detailed breakdown of each pillar over the next coming months.
“The certification process was tough but ultimately underlined our business’s commitment to the highest social and environmental standards, as well as recognising that we have a transparent and inclusive culture.” Caroline Varley, Commercial Director of Eight Plus.
A quick overview of our B Corp Process:
- Initial research into B Corporation and what is potentially involved
- Completing our B Impact Assessment
- B Labs evaluating our B Impact Assessment
- Working hard to continue to improve our practises and processes
- Implementing a legally binding agreement which has been logged at Companies house and in B Corp
- Uploading our supporting documents and data
- Verification stage
- Post verification stage
- Fully fledged member of B Corp
If you are contemplating becoming a B Corp Certified business but are keen to speak to someone who has been through the process. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We would love to see our partners, clients and fellow businesses achieve our goals together.
Being a force for good within the Print Industry.
It is no hidden secret that we are advocates for the mail and print industry from raising awareness at Number 10 Downing Street to our MD being actively involved in print industry association boards and committees. Our passion for print and mail is brimming at the seams.
We are proud to work in partnership with JICMAIL to showcase how print marketing and direct mail channels are relevant in an ever-increasing technological society. As well as Two Sides, which continues to challenge the common misconceptions around paper, print and direct mail.
Having a print and mailing house become B Corp accredited shines a spotlight on both industries on possible sustainable practices. We are delighted to be joining the B Corporation Community of businesses which encompasses a range of sectors. As well as our fellow print comrades within the print industry, who are all committed to using business as a force for positive change.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
EDWPS has been on a sustainable journey since in 2019, and our B Corporation certification solidifies this continual commitment. We operate with a strong focus on minimising waste, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting local communities. By implementing sustainable practices throughout our operations, such as using more environmentally friendly water-based inks, practising efficient printing techniques, investing in technology and offsetting our carbon footprint. We ensure that our clients receive high-quality products while minimising our environmental impact.
The Benefits of Choosing a B Corp Certified Partner
When you choose EDWPS as your print and mailing partner, you can be confident that you are working with a company dedicated to making a positive difference.
Our B Corporation certification demonstrates our unwavering commitment to ethical business practices, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility. By partnering with us, you contribute to a more sustainable future while receiving top-notch print and mailing services.
In Summary
“It’s been a long road but the journey has definitely been worth it, and it is an incredibly proud moment to now officially be certified as a B Corp!” Lance Hill MD of EDWPS & Eight Plus.
“For me personally, I’m hugely proud that we are now a certified B-Corporation. The certification process has been a real learning curve that I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being part of.” Caroline Varley, Commercial Director of Eight Plus.
We are dedicated to providing high-quality, eco-friendly solutions while making a positive impact on society and the environment. When you choose EDWPS, you choose a trusted partner who stands for excellence, sustainability, and making a difference. Explore our range of services and see how we could possibly work together to create something great together.
If you are keen to get into the bare bones of what our B Keepers have working away on in the background. You can easily delve into our B Corporation Report and stay tuned for our upcoming in-depth analysis of each B Corporation pillar in the following months. We’re excited to share all the nitty gritty information with you, so keep an eye out!
