I’ve long been inspired by the B Corp movement and its role in galvanising business as a force for good in the world. As giffgaff’s CFO, I see B Corp certification not only as a commitment to social and environmental responsibility but also as a practical guide that helps us run a stable, progressive and forward-thinking business. Our certification is a strategic asset – it reflects our dedication to maintaining rigorous standards that drive continuous improvement and responsible financial growth. These standards are more than a point of pride; they’re the very guardrails that ensure our operations remain resilient even in turbulent times.
At giffgaff, our success is defined not only by our commercial performance but also by our contribution to society. B Corp certification is part of our commitment to act for the common good and for the long term. It’s how we’ll create a future where our planet is cared for, our members feel supported and included, and communities can flourish. It’s about moving away from short-term gains and towards a more purposeful approach to our business – one which reduces risk and builds trust with investors, customers, and employees alike. In essence, B Corp standards help us balance profitability with progress, guiding our decisions in a way that protects our bottom line while also contributing positively to society and the environment.
We also know that UK consumers expect so much more from the brands they engage with and buy from. Sustainability credentials are increasingly seen as key drivers that inform our purchasing decisions – and the B Corp logo is helping customers to identify those brands that are holding themselves to higher standards of social and environmental performance. The standards drive businesses to go beyond what’s expected or required, ensuring that our investments and activities are aligned with the values that drive a resilient, fairer and greener future.
giffgaff’s own origin story is built on similar commitments – to offer flexibility, simplicity and good value to our members in a way that is truly sustainable. These guiding principles have been the lighthouse for our business over the last 15 years – and continue to inform and shape our work today. With a mindset rooted in mutuality, we’ve continued to transform the mobile market with fair prices, flexible contracts and planet-friendly products and services, including refurbished devices, giffgaff’s tech recycling service and eSIM. We champion great value connectivity that’s fair for everyone, liberating our members to connect to the people and things they love.
We’ve also been proud to share ownership of the challenges of delivering better mobile with our customers – or as we describe them, our ‘members’. Over the years, our community hasn’t just contributed to giffgaff’s success – it’s been central to every aspect of it, from product development and app design to providing vital feedback, hundreds of useful ideas, and countless new customer referrals. This collaborative engagement has been vital in shaping our business, driving operational improvements that benefit both our members and our commercial performance.
We are joining hands to build an economy that benefits all people and the planet we share
B Corp’s assessment (BIA) tool offers a clear roadmap for integrating responsible practices into our core strategy, enabling us to maintain a balanced scorecard across people, planet and profit. Alongside our efforts to decarbonise our business and support a circular future with refurbished devices and tech recycling, we also believe in joining forces for real change. Our partnership with the Big Issue is a powerful example of combining our shared assets to build pathways out of poverty. By connecting every Big Issue vendor across the UK, as well as job seekers involved in the Big Issue Recruit programme, we’re increasing their earning potential and strengthening their support networks, resilience and access to opportunities. Together, we’re helping under-served communities access technology and digital skills, strengthening social and digital inclusion in communities. It’s a clear example of how responsible business practices lead to stronger social and financial outcomes.
