British skincare and spa brand Medik8 has achieved B Corporation (B Corp) status, making it one of only 66 beauty manufacturers in the 8,000-strong B Corp community worldwide.

Other spa and wellbeing brands which have achieved B Corp status include The Body Shop, Comfort Zone, Aromatherapy Associates, Elemis and Aesop.

B Corps are companies that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability and transparency. Their goal is to balance people, the planet and profit.

To certify as a B Corp, a business’ performance is analysed across five key areas; governance, workers, community, environment and customers.

As part of the certification, companies are also legally committed to bring benefits, not just to shareholders, but to all business stakeholders, including workers, customers, communities and the environment.

The process is rigorous, with applicants required to reach a benchmark score of more than 80 while providing evidence of socially and environmentally responsible practices relating to energy supplies, waste and water use, worker compensation, diversity and corporate transparency.

Following an eight-month application process, Medik8 obtained certification with a score of 89.9 points.

Medik8 says its vision is to continue to be part of a global movement for a more inclusive, equitable and regenerative economy, while constantly improving on its existing processes and practices to drive greater positive change, both now and in future.

“B Corp certification does not mean that as a company we are perfect, nor that we have achieved our highest impact,” said Alexandra Florea, Medik8’s head of sustainability.

“We’re on a journey and are excited to be joining a community of like-minded companies that believe businesses can be a force for good. Over the coming months and years, with B Corp as our guiding principle, we’re committed to bringing greater positive impact to our communities and the planet."