B Corp Certification Certification Explained
International (USA-based) · Established 2006
Audit Level: Third-Party Audit
An independent third party conducts an audit of the brand's facilities or documentation. More rigorous than self-declaration.
Supply-chain verified: No.
| Supply Chain | Not required |
| Cost for Brands | Annual fee based on revenue. Ranges from $1,000 to $50,000+ per year. |
| Recognized In | Global — 80+ countries, 9,000+ certified companies |
Editorial Analysis
Certifies companies (not products) against overall social and environmental performance using the B Impact Assessment. Covers governance, workers, community, environment, and customers. B Corp does not certify vegan status — Ben & Jerry's (dairy ice cream) and Eileen Fisher (uses wool) are certified B Corps. Patagonia held B Corp status but surrendered its certification in December 2022 after restructuring its ownership into a charitable trust. A good indicator of general ethical intent, not a vegan guarantee.
Summary
Type
Cruelty-Free
Established
2006
Origin
International (USA-based)
Scope
Entire companies across all sectors