Pinstone awarded B Corp status – giving back to people and planet

The official B Corp status accreditation evidences high social and environmental business performance across five key areas. The Herefordshire-based company scoring particularly highly in ‘workers’ and ‘community’.

Alignment with Company Values

“It’s the culmination of a lot of work and an 18-month process. Built on our existing foundations over the last 18 years” says Catherine Linch, managing director and founder of Pinstone.

“It was a no brainer to go for B Corp. Our company values were already aligned, focusing on giving back to people and planet,” adds Catherine.

Initial B Corp Investments

One of Pinstone’s initial B Corp investments was to set-up 10 commercial beehives. They also planted a wildflower mix over seven acres within a 40-acre commercial apple orchard last year. This improved the area as a habitat for pollinators.

Other commitments include the ‘Target 52’ team training initiative. Everyone in the agency participates in 52 hours of training throughout the year.

Engaging Clients and Industry

“We’re also engaging clients and the industry in championing issues that impact them. This year, we’re hosting an event on the implications of artificial intelligence on the communications sector.” says Catherine.

“Providing role models for women in business and supporting the professional networking group Meat Business Women, through our sponsorship, is another example where we aim to make a difference.”

“It really is a holistic commendation for a well-run business and it doesn’t stop here,” Catherine continues.

“There was already an internal mantra of ‘being the Bees’ Knees’. This encompasses everything from our investment in our people and professional development, through to giving back to the environment and the industry we are rooted in,” she adds.

Communications as a Force for Good

“Fundamentally we want to use ‘communications as a force for good.”

“All of our team are members of at least one subgroup – people, planet or purpose – to contribute to our ongoing B Corp journey.”

“The ‘planet team’ is trialling different systems to help reduce waste, review emissions and energy use and get everyone thinking more about being planet friendly,” continues Catherine.

The whole company B Corp assessment entailed a rigorous process. It included changing the corporate governance structure to be accountable to all stakeholders, not just shareholders.

Joining the B Corp Community

Pinstone now joins over 1,500 businesses certified B Corp in the UK. This number has nearly doubled in the past year. There are now over 7,000 Certified B Corporations worldwide, across more than 80 countries and 150 industries, including big food brands such as Innocent and Gousto.