Embracing a Better Business Model
Business leaders worldwide are communicating 2024 goals internally and externally, while closely watching economic trends, headwinds, and tailwinds. We’re also evaluating demographic and market trends, like the shifting focus away from profit as the primary definition of business success.
Companies like Room & Board, the furniture company based in Minnesota and Burton, the snowboard maker in Vermont, have joined the ever-growing ranks of B Corporations, businesses that are evolving to meet the demands of a more socially and environmentally conscious consumer base.
Kane Communications Group earned our B Corps certification in 2022, and we continue on a path of demonstrating our commitment to being good stewards of resources. Along with other B Corps, we are redefining success in the business world by balancing profit with purpose.
What is a B Corporation?
B Corps are certified by the non-profit organization B Lab, which evaluates companies based on their performance in areas such as environmental sustainability, employee relations, community involvement, and governance. To become a certified B Corp, a company must meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.
The Triple Bottom Line
At the heart of the B Corporation movement is the concept of the triple bottom line, which considers three key aspects of business success: people, planet, and profit. At Kane Communications Group, we include a fourth: purpose.
Traditional businesses have long focused solely on financial gains, but B Corps recognize that true success lies in achieving a balance that benefits not only shareholders but also the broader community and the environment.
Social and Environmental Impact
We actively seek to address social and environmental issues by incorporating sustainable practices, fostering diversity and inclusion, and giving back to our communities. From reducing carbon footprints to promoting fair labor practices, B Corps are leading the charge in building a more responsible and ethical business landscape.
Transparency and Accountability
B Corporations prioritize transparency in their operations, providing stakeholders with a clear view of their impact and performance. The B Corp certification process itself is a testament to our commitment to accountability, as we are required to regularly assess and report on our social and environmental practices. This level of transparency builds trust among consumers and investors, distinguishing B Corps as leaders in responsible business practices
An Invitation to Learn More
As a B Corp proponent, I see the benefits, including increased customer loyalty and a positive impact on employee morale, that come with earning certification. On Thursday, February 29, I’ll be joining leaders from two other B Corps, Lakefront Brewery and Indigenous Pact, to share insights from our respective experiences in a panel discussion at Carthage College. Attendance is free, but registration is required. I look forward to seeing you there.