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From the Guardian:
The movement to put purpose at the heart of business strategy has received a major boost with news that several multinationals, including consumer goods giant Unilever, are considering becoming B Corps, for-profit corporate entities that commit to positive social and environmental goals.
Last month, Brazil’s top cosmetics, fragrance and toiletries maker, Natura, became the largest — and first publicly traded — company to attain B Corp sustainability certification. B Corps are certified by NGO B Labs as contributing social and environmental benefits beyond the financial bottom line.
Consumer goods giant Unilever could be the next one. The company’s chief executive Paul Polman told Guardian Sustainable Business in Davos that becoming a B Corp would send a powerful signal that the purpose of business is not just profit, but to have a positive impact on society and the environment.
This is a breakthrough event. I strongly believe that business has the power to do good. Working with a for-purpose mindset with a for-profit model is good for the long term sustainability of business and society.
This is a key area of focus for my work and its good to see Natura & Unilever taking the step forward.