B-Corp Month

March marked the annual celebration of B Corp Month, an initiative led by B Lab and the global B Corp community which celebrates what it means to be a B Corp.

The project aims to raise awareness of the movement worldwide and how it helps promote a more responsible, sustainable and ethical approach to business.

What is a B Corp?

A “B Corp” is a business that has been certified by an international non-profit organisation called B Labs for meeting high standards in various areas, from environmental factors to employee diversity.

Why register as a B Corp?

There is a continuing focus on sustainability in recent years, with both consumers and organisations taking note of the impact companies can have on society and the environment. As such, there is increasing emphasis around companies and businesses becoming “B Corps.”

Examples of B Corps:

Over 10,000 Organisations are currently registered as B Corps (The global directory of all members is available HERE).

Well-known international B Corps include industry leaders such as:

  • Patagonia
  • The Body Shop
  • Innocent Drinks

Irish B Corps

Closer to home, there are more than 200 Irish companies currently having B Corp certification, and they include

  • R & A Bailey ULC, the drinks company,
  • Castle Leslie the Co. Monaghan hotel and
  • Sculpted By Aimee Connelly Cosmetics, the beauty company.

How can CFI assist?

As more companies embark on the B Corp  journey,  we have seen a notable increase in queries – particularly regarding the need to amend company constitutions. To meet B Lab governance requirements, applicant companies must include a public and binding declaration within their governing documents, confirming their commitment to the goals of the B Lab\B Corp movement.

Amending a company’s Constitution requires a shareholders’ resolution, passed either at an Extraordinary General Meeting or by written resolution. CFI can assist in this process by:
  • Drafting the revised constitutions
  • Preparing the necessary documentation to pass the required resolutions.
  • Ensuring compliance both with the Companies Act and the requirements of B Lab’s certification criteria in respect to the constitution.

Should you require further information or assistance with making the relevant amendments, please contact us HERE or give us a call on 01 664 1177.

Disclaimer:  This article  is for general informational purposes only. All content is provided in good faith; however, we make no representation or warranty of any kind regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information. All or any information is subject to change. This post does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or legal advisor with any questions you may have. CFI are not liable for any loss or damage arising from your use of the information contained in this Article.

For More Information:

Company Formations

Company Secretarial

Annual Returns

Register of Beneficial Owners