Our B Corp journey and the ripple effect it had

Why we’re proud to have been the first B Corp in our industry, but we’re even prouder that so many have followed our lead.

 

At Simply Washrooms, we’ve always believed that businesses have a responsibility to do more than just turn a profit. They should be a force for good, contributing positively to society and the planet.

That’s why, back in 2022, we made the decision to become a certified B Corporation. It was a milestone moment for us. Not just because we were the first in our industry to achieve this certification, but because it reinforced our commitment to operating sustainably, ethically, and with purpose.

Being a B Corp isn’t just a badge; it’s a mindset. It means meeting the highest standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. For us, it was about embedding these values into every aspect of our business – from the products we source and the suppliers we work with, to the way we treat our team and the communities we serve.

When we first became a B Corp, we were pioneers in our field. At the time, the concept of balancing profit with purpose was still gaining traction, and many in the industry were sceptical. But we knew that sustainability wasn’t just a trend – it was the future. We wanted to prove that a business could thrive while prioritising people and the planet.

Fast forward to today, and we’re thrilled to see how much has changed. What was once a solitary achievement for us has now become a movement. Over the years, we’ve watched as more and more of our competitors have embraced the B Corp ethos, earning their own certifications and raising the bar for the entire industry. And honestly? We couldn’t be prouder.

Some might see this as a threat – after all, more B Corps means more competition. But we don’t see it that way. We see it as a win for everyone. Every new B Corp is a step towards a more sustainable, equitable, and responsible business landscape. It’s proof that the values we championed from the beginning are resonating far and wide. It’s a reminder that when we work together, we can create real, lasting change.

Of course, being the first will always be a point of pride for us. It’s testament to our team’s hard work, vision, and determination to lead by example. But what truly excites us is the collective impact we’re now having as an industry. Together, we’re reducing waste, lowering carbon footprints, supporting fair employment practices, and proving that business can be a powerful tool for good.

So, while we’re proud to have been the first, we’re even prouder to no longer be the only ones. To our fellow B Corps – old and new – we say thank you. Thank you for joining us on this journey. Thank you for showing the world that business can be a force for positive change.

And to those who are still considering it, we say this: the time to act is now. The future of business is sustainable, inclusive, and purpose-driven. Let’s keep pushing forward, together.

At Simply Washrooms, we’ll continue to lead with purpose, innovate with passion, and strive to make a difference – not just in our industry, but in the world. Because that’s what being a B Corp is all about.

Here’s to the next chapter of the B Corp movement. We can’t wait to see what we’ll achieve together.