The B Corp sustainability and social responsibility certification was launched by B Lab, a global non-profit organization that, in 2007, initiated a movement to change the system within the culture and operations of companies. The goal was to transform business norms, shifting from a profit-centered model to an inclusive economic system that considers all stakeholders, ensuring that companies take responsibility for economic, social, and environmental changes.

To achieve the B Corp certification, a company must pass a rigorous assessment of its practices in five key areas: governance, employees, customers, community and environment. It must achieve a minimum score of 80 points out of 200 on the B Impact Assessment evaluation and audit to gain certification. Globally, nearly 10.000 B Corps are operating in 102 countries across 160 industries, while over 300.000 companies use B Corp tools to verify sustainability standards.

The First Alliance in Romania Supporting the B Corp Movement

The objectives of Better Business Alliance include informing local businesses about the benefits of B Corp certification, consulting and supporting those seeking certification, and assisting companies that wish to begin their journey towards sustainability according to ESG standards.

Additionally, the alliance encourages certified B Corps and those in the certification process to join, collaborate, and share best practices. This exchange of experience helps strengthen a business network with impact.

The benefits of B Corp certification are reflected in the performance of certified companies. According to a B Lab study in the U.S., between 2011 and 2015, B Corps grew 28 times faster than the national average. Furthermore, B Corps attract and retain talent more easily due to their values and organizational culture, which focus on social and environmental impact. These companies are 55% more likely to cover healthcare insurance costs for employees and are actively engaged in their communities.

“B Corp is not just a certification. It represents a paradigm shift in how business is done. For consumers, it is a symbol of trust, as B Corp certified companies publicly demonstrate that they operate according to the highest sustainability standards, with a social purpose above profit. Through this new alliance, we aim to harness the power of good, with both companies: through their operating models and consumers, by choosing B Corp certified products and services, contributing to society,” said Corina Radu, founder of Impact Market Romania.

Better Business Alliance will operate as a non-profit organization, initiated by B Corp consultants Corina Radu, Cătălina Ticău, Cristina Tararache, Cristina Bîcîilă, and Daria Hău, with the support of B Lab Europe, to develop a local and regional network of sustainable and visionary companies.

Romanian Companies Show a Growing Interest in B Corp Certification

Locally, Danone Romania is the first B Corp company, having obtained certification at the Central and Eastern European regional level. Currently, a second company has been certified, and 12 other businesses from various industries such as food production, compostable materials, retail, cosmetics, coaching, tourism, fashion, and communications & branding are in the process of being certified.

This progress is essential for developing a business ecosystem that will have a positive impact in Romania. Interest in B Corp certification is increasing, driven by its benefits for employer branding and its attractiveness to consumers. A recent B Lab study found that 57% of European consumers consider sustainability and certifications when making purchasing decisions, while 49% factor it into job choices.