B Corp Month: Reflecting on our journey so far

March is B Corp month, and to celebrate we’re taking a look back on our journey to becoming certified. We asked our Director of Operations and ESG, Anna Snoep, and ESG Executive, Ellen Mutimer, a few questions about the road so far and the path ahead.

What were the biggest challenges in achieving B Corp certification?
Ellen: We weren’t always showcasing the great things we were already doing or keeping the evidence to back them up. The certification process highlighted the importance of tracking and measuring everything.
Anna: Initially, not having a sounding board which meant we didn’t feel confident we were doing the right things. Working with a consultant who confirmed we were on the right track and supported us across the finishing line was invaluable.

What key internal changes were made to align with B Corp principles?
Ellen: We strengthened sustainability policies, improved employee wellbeing initiatives, and embedded ESG into decision making at all levels.
Anna: To consider all our stakeholders when making decisions at all levels.

What impact has B Corp certification had on client and supplier relationships?
Anna: Clients see us as a trusted partner who can support them with achieving their own ESG goals. B Corp fulfils part of the due diligence our clients require as it is already covered by the certification. This means we can move to providing value to our clients quicker!
Ellen: Clients value working with a responsible business, and it’s opened conversations with suppliers about improving sustainability throughout our supply chain.

“Clients see us as a trusted partner who can support them with achieving their own ESG goals”

Anna Snoep, Director of Operations and ESG, Inntel

How about company culture and employee engagement?
Ellen: Employees feel more engaged and they’re proud to work for a company committed to sustainability and ongoing improvement. It has sparked greater involvement in ESG initiatives and workplace improvements, as well as fostering a stronger sense of community. A great example of this was our Valentine’s Day celebration, where everyone had the chance to write an anonymous kudos message to brighten a colleague’s day. We received over 291 messages, spreading appreciation and warmth throughout the team. Initiatives like this help reinforce our commitment to people, planet, and profit.

Have there been any unexpected benefits?
Ellen: The incredible B Corp community! It’s inspiring to connect with like-minded businesses that equally prioritise people, planet, and profit.
Anna: How quickly being a B Corp becomes part of your DNA. We don’t have to remind ourselves to consider all our stakeholders for every decision, this is in our DNA now and we do it all the time.

Tell us about employee involvement in sustainability and social responsibility?
Ellen: Employees have played a key role in driving sustainability initiatives, leading projects like our commuting reduction plan, our onsite refillery, and expanded recycling opportunities – including collections for used candles, cosmetics, and blister packs. We also send out monthly ESG emails to all colleagues, sharing tips and tricks to try at home, along with celebrating both big and small sustainability wins. To ensure broad representation, we have three dedicated teams aligned with the ESG framework: the ECOLOGiCAL team focuses on environmental initiatives, the SOCIALOGiCAL team drives community and social impact, and the EDI LOGiCAL team champions equity, diversity, and inclusion. These groups empower employees across all departments to contribute ideas, take action, and help shape a more responsible and sustainable workplace.

What’s been the most rewarding part of the journey?
Ellen: Knowing we’re making a real difference and being part of a global movement driving positive change.

Next big goals as a B Corp?
Ellen: Reduce our carbon footprint further, strengthen supplier and client engagement, expand community outreach, and keep improving how we measure and track our impact.

“It’s inspiring to connect with like-minded businesses that equally prioritise people, planet, and profit”

Ellen Mutimer, ESG Executive, Inntel