Our thinking

Soap company calls on B Corp to clean up their act

21 February, 2025

By now you are probably used to companies dropping sustainability commitments they claim they can’t meet, but what about companies dropping sustainability certifications for not being ambitious enough? 

Dr. Bronner, North America’s top-selling fair trade soap brand and B Corp’s highest scorer globally, has recently announced it is dropping its B Corp certification without plans to renew. The soap company claims B Corp no longer upholds the rigorous standards needed to drive systemic change. They argue that the inclusion of large multinationals with poor ecological and labour records, lack of a credible eco-social supply chain certification and hesitancy to take stronger stances on issues such as regenerative agriculture and corporate accountability have weakened B Corps integrity and could allow for green washing. 

By withdrawing, has Dr. Bronner lost its influence over one of the most recognised responsible business certifications? If their withdrawal had blindsided B Lab (the organisation behind B Corp), then yes, maybe. However, alongside other concerned B Corps, Dr Bronner issued an open letter in June 2022 and sent a private letter in January 2023, warning of withdrawal if the standards were not revised by 2024. After two and a half years of delay  while B Lab has consulted (admittedly widely and comprehensively) on new and more robust standards, the public departure of B Corps’ star player – and the potential for others to follow – might be Dr Bronner’s best shot at pushing for reform. This is a clear example of how engagement with clear consequences of inaction can be used to drive change, be it with a supplier, certification body or investee company.

By Nia Vines