Optix Solutions earns B Corp status

Exeter-based marketing strategy agency Optix Solutions has achieved B Corp certification, a globally recognised mark of excellence in balancing profit with purpose.

This milestone places Optix among a growing group of businesses redefining success by prioritising social and environmental impact.

The journey to B Corp began several years ago when Optix started adopting sustainable and ethical practices. Managing Director Rob Stevens said: “When I joined Optix in 2019, sustainability was already part of the company’s DNA – from nurturing biodiversity through a wildflower meadow to achieving NHS ‘Mindful Employer’ certification. We’ve since built on these foundations to create a business that truly embodies the B Corp ethos.”

In 2020, Optix partnered with the University of Exeter’s Sustainability Programme to reduce its environmental footprint. The measures included switching to LED lighting, installing water diffusers, and improving waste management. A year later, the company pledged to the ‘Race to Net Zero’, working with external auditor SWMAS to conduct a carbon footprint audit. This led to further steps, such as transitioning to renewable energy and enhancing energy efficiency.

Other initiatives – including becoming a certified Living Wage employer, training mental health first aiders, and earning a top-four spot in Campaign’s Best Places to Work awards – prompted Optix to pursue B Corp certification. However, the process wasn’t without challenges.

“The application process is complex, and we hadn’t grasped the intricacies,” said Rob. “We sought expert guidance to refine our submission, ultimately earning an impressive score of 95.1, a really strong result and one that we’re all proud of.”

B Corp certification solidifies Optix’s reputation as a purpose-driven business. Co-founder Alastair Banks said: “Joining the B Corp community is a proud moment for us. It not only validates our efforts but also connects us with a network of businesses sharing our values. We’ve always put a high importance on our purpose, so to learn how to be better from other ‘B Corpers’ is really exciting.”

Director of Design Paul Lawrence added: “The B Corp principles allow me to innovate positive solutions and foster a culture of accountability and purpose within my team. Ultimately, in my heart it’s about leveraging design to drive meaningful change, elevating our brands to allow those to share a vision for a better and more sustainable future.”

Operations Director Candice Short echoed this sentiment: “It’s empowering to work in a place where success isn’t just measured by profit but by the good we create together.”