In 2023, the number of B Corps in Italy increased by 41%, reaching a total of 266 companies. This achievement places Italian companies in second place in Europe for their commitment to sustainability, on par with the Netherlands. France remains in first place with 376 certified B Corps.
The survey was released in conjunction with B Corp Month, a month dedicated to a global campaign that highlights companies committed to improving their environmental, social, and governance impact. This year, over 8,000 companies worldwide are participating in the initiative, recognizing the crucial role of businesses in the fight against climate change.
If we analyze the sectors that have experienced the highest growth in terms of new certified B Corps, the top three are manufacturing (64% of companies), wholesale trade (60%), and the health and social assistance sector (50%). These data reflect a growing commitment to sustainability and the integration of ESG criteria in various areas of economic activity.
From a geographical point of view, 77% of B Corps are based in Northern Italy, but the gap between North and South is decreasing. In 2023, certified companies in the Central-Southern regions grew by 44%, compared to 41% in the Northern regions. Regionally, Lombardy confirms its position as the region with the highest number of B Corps (95), followed by Emilia-Romagna (39), Veneto (33), and Lazio (24). The expansion of B Corps in the South highlights and consolidates Italy’s growth towards sustainability. In March 2024, the Italian B Corp movement counted 279 companies (already +13 compared to December 2023), employing over 25,000 people in 74 sectors, generating a turnover exceeding 14 billion euros.
The increase in certified B Corp companies also meets consumers’ sensitivity. According to a survey commissioned by FpS and presented during the launch of the Sustrain project, an agency specialized in supporting companies in their sustainable transition, 71% of Italians believe that sustainable choices would bring not only a positive image but also tangible economic returns to companies. 84% of respondents declare that they would be willing to pay more for a product that is truly more sustainable than competitors. This is especially true for fresh foods (62%), followed by domestic infrastructures such as heating, air conditioning, fixtures (36%), health products (35%), and home products (35%).
Italy’s progress in B Corp certifications bodes well for the future and once again demonstrates that Italian companies can make a difference in addressing the issues threatening society. Constructive choices are also emerging to counteract demographic crises and the difficulties faced by Italians: an increasing number of companies across the peninsula are adapting their corporate welfare to meet the new needs of workers.
Source: Adnkronos
