B Local launches in Devon

Around 90 businesses from across Devon have marked the launch of B Local Devon - the county’s regional chapter of B Corporation UK - at a special event recently held at Exeter Cathedral.

Becoming one of nine B Locals based around the UK, B Local Devon joins the network that has been established to transform the global economy to benefit all people, communities, and the planet. 

Providing a valuable opportunity for B Corp businesses - of which there are now approximately 40 in Devon - to meet, network and share best practice, B Local Devon will play a key role in encouraging interest from the B curious and businesses that are on their B Corp journey, or pending certification.

As part of this role, it will provide an opportunity for the B curious to meet B Corps that have already made the commitment to people and planet.   

B Local aims to strengthen the fabric of Devon's economy while promoting environmentally conscious business practices. Bringing together businesses that are committed to building a resilient and sustainable local economy, B Local Devon will facilitate collaboration and community engagement to create a thriving ecosystem where businesses can grow and communities can benefit from increased economic resilience.

Guests heard from speakers including Greg Parsons from Sharpham Dairy who opened the event and introduced The Dean of Exeter Cathedral, who drew parallels between the B Corp community and the role the Cathedral serves in the wider Devon community, as well as giving a fascinating insight into its history.

Daisy Lavington, one of B Corp UK’s team based in Devon, spoke of the growing interest from B Corp curious businesses in the county. Other speakers included Devon B Corps, Rob Haward from Riverford Organic, Tasmin Chilcott from Dry Robe, and Philip Everett-Lyons from Hattiers Rum. 

Commenting for B Local Devon network Greg Parsons from Sharpham Dairy said: “Our goal is to shine a light on business as a force for good, amplifying the impact of local B Corp organisations, fostering community connections, and promoting sustainable practices. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient future for Devon while promoting social and environmental business practices.”

In addition to networking, guests had the opportunity to enjoy a selection of Devon’s finest B Corp food and drink, kindly provided by Sharpham Dairy, Hattiers Rum, Papillon Gin, Owens Coffee, Frobishers, Riverford Organic and Nkuku.

B Locals are community groups run by B Corps and B Leaders, formed when there is a concentrated number of B Corps in a city or region. With light-touch support from B Lab UK, B Locals connect like-minded businesses, creating impact at a local level, and helping to  raise awareness of the B Corp movement.