Following the news that Devon-based Turnstyle Designs has achieved B Corp status, MD Oscar Roberts highlights why it's so important to source products from responsible manufacturers, and reveals ways to minimise your business's environmental impact.
Q: Tell us about B Corp status – why is it important to Turnstyle Designs?
A: B Corp is a fantastic blueprint for any company that wants to remain a for-profit business while also prioritising people and the environment. For us, it was an important way to unify all the work we do into one core message while also giving us new targets to aim for. It’s important to because we strongly believe that operating responsibly is the right way to do business. Being B Corp certified also makes us part of a community of organizations that share the same values.
Q: Was achieving it a difficult process?
A: Yes, it was certainly an in-depth process that took us around a year. The audit is very thorough and covers everything from financial security to cleaning products!
One of the key challenges we faced was evidencing what we do. There are processes we’ve had in place for years, but we had never needed to prove how they work to anyone before. Ultimately, it gave us a new level of transparency, which is really important in helping us stay focused.
Q: Why should sourcing products from manufacturers with B Corp status matter to kitchen and bathroom retailers?
A: First and foremost, buying responsibly is one of the most powerful actions businesses and consumers can take. While reducing your direct footprint is essential, the impact of the products you source can often far outweigh that effort, potentially undoing the hard work if not carefully considered. Buying from a Certified B Corp gives you confidence that the company is operating responsibly and is committed to continuous improvement – verified at the highest level.
Q: Are there any key lessons taken from the process that KBB businesses could apply for themselves?
A: It’s crucial to keep analysing your carbon footprint, but that’s just one piece of the puzzle. Scrutinising what you’re buying and where it’s coming from is equally important.
Consider factors such as:
* Worker conditions
* Water treatment processes
* Plastic usage in production and packaging
Also, can you verify the claims a company is making? Are you satisfied with the conditions under which a product was made? The best advice is to make a habit of questioning everything. This will help you identify areas for improvement and discover amazing companies that often fly under the radar but are worth seeking out.
Q: What's next on the sustainability journey for TD?
We’re continuing to look for new charities to support. Recently, we started working with an incredible local initiative called Man Down, which began in Cornwall and has now expanded to North Devon. They provide vital support groups for men’s mental health.
We’re also looking at what we can do to take more control of our carbon offsetting. The large national schemes don’t always fill me with confidence – I’d much rather see the trees planted in North Devon.
