
Cornwall is an emerging UK hotspot for companies that want to use business as a force for good and this has recently been strengthened by the appointment of two new Co-Chairs to the county’s regional B Corp group, known as a B Local.
The appointments of Laura Hudspith from Hiyield and Lisa Sutherland from Fresh Communication brings experience and enthusiasm to the now five strong team who run the B Local Cornwall group, a network of B Corp companies based in Cornwall. They join existing co-chairs, Jennifer Short-Martin from Stephens Scown, Lian Locke from Lovat Parks and Amanda Winwood, Made for Life Organics.
B Corps belong to a global community of businesses verified for meeting high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability. Cornwall is home to a rapidly growing and thriving B Corp community. B Local Cornwall holds regular events across the county for B Corps, those working towards certification and businesses and individuals wanting to find out more. The events enable companies to share experiences, learn from inspirational speakers and build connections.
The most recent B Local Cornwall event was held at Watergate Bay and raised money for The Wave Project and Surfers Against Sewage, who both spoke at the event, followed by a beach clean and sea swim.
There are currently 65 B Corp certified companies in Cornwall, including well known consumer brands such as Finisterre, St Eval candles, Seasalt clothing, Origin Coffee and Rodda’s in addition to representatives from business sectors such as architecture, engineering, manufacturing, construction, design, law, accountancy and more.
Commenting on the growth of the B Corp movement in Cornwall, Sam Oulton, Engagement Coordinator from B Lab UK said: “I’m excited to see how these new appointments build on the incredible progress of the B Corp community in Cornwall and address local demands for purposeful business. Cornwall has a rich history in industrial innovation, environmental stewardship and purpose-led business. B Lab UK will be supporting the county’s efforts in building a more equitable and inclusive local economy, and across the rest of the UK.”
Commenting on their appointment as Co-Chair of B Local Cornwall, Lisa Sutherland founder of Fresh Communication, said: “The B Corp business community in Cornwall is buzzing and I’m delighted to be a part of this growing movement. Laura and I have been warmly welcomed by B Local Cornwall and we’ve hit the ground running with event planning and organisation.
She continues: “People are increasingly wanting to make a positive impact through the products and services they buy, the companies they work for and the businesses they invest in and are seeking out B Corp companies when making these decisions. B Corp is a global accreditation but the benefits to the economy and community are delivered locally. We are hugely proud that Cornish businesses are blazing a trail at a national level to be a force for good.”