When we set out to become a certified B Corp, we knew it wouldn’t be easy – that was part of the appeal! It’s been a natural step in proving we’re serious about making a meaningful change in our sector. The process is designed to challenge businesses to be better: more transparent, more responsible, more impactful.
We’re proud to share that we’ve achieved an updated B Corp score of 93.4, and even prouder that one of the biggest contributors to our new score is our verified Impact Business Model.
So, what exactly does that mean – and what does it have to do with merch?
What is an Impact Business Model?
In B Corp terms, an Impact Business Model (IBM) means a business has been intentionally designed to deliver a positive outcome for a specific group of stakeholders – whether that’s workers, communities, the environment or customers.
In our case, it’s all about the environment. Specifically, resource conservation. We’ve structured our business to conserve resources and actively reduce the impact of branded merchandise. This isn’t sustainability as an add-on – it’s the foundation of how we work. We work tirelessly to make use of resources more efficiently than the market alternatives. That means helping our clients make more conscious choices without compromising on creativity or quality.
We do this in a few key ways:
- We’re proud to be certified Carbon Neutral to PAS 2060, which means we measure, reduce and offset our emissions according to internationally recognised standards.
- In the past year, we’ve reduced our emissions intensity by 14.7% year on year – a result of continual improvements in our supply chain, materials and transport.
- We guide every project with our Sourcing Values, designed to help clients choose better.
Our Sourcing Values
Recycled: Made from at least 50% recycled materials
Reusable: Made to be used again and again
Low Mileage: Fewer transportation miles for a smaller footprint
Plastic-Free: Product and packaging use more sustainable materials
Vegan: Free of animal derivatives
Organic: Avoiding chemicals that put the balance of nature at risk
Natural: Made with natural materials requiring less processing Biodegradable: Made with materials designed to decompose faster
Social Mission: Supporting good causes such as water and literary access programs
These values aren’t just labels. They shape the way we source, design and deliver merchandise – helping our clients reduce their footprint and align with their own ESG goals.
Why This Matters
The merchandise industry has long been associated with wasteful products and throwaway culture. But we know it doesn’t have to be that way.
By building sustainability into the core of our business – and proving it through certifications like B Corp and PAS 2060 – we’re showing that branded merch can still be bold, creative and memorable, while being far kinder to the planet.
What’s Next
Being recognised for our Impact Business Model is a huge milestone, but we’re not stopping here.
We’re continuing to track and reduce our carbon intensity. We’re helping more clients switch to sustainable products and packaging. And we’re working closely with supply partners who share our values.
This isn’t just about hitting a target or scoring points on an assessment. It’s about transforming how merchandise is made, bought and valued – and making sure that every branded item has a story and a purpose behind it.
