We believe in making a difference, not just in the events and productions we produce but in how we operate as a business. We caught up with Alastair Currie, our CEO, and Phoebe Currie, our Sustainability and Social Values Manager, to discuss why we became a B Corp, the journey that brought us here, and the impact it has had on our company and beyond.
What motivated SLX to pursue B Corp certification? Was there a defining moment?
Alastair Currie (AC): It was twofold, four years ago, I visited Charlie Bigham’s food factory and was incredibly impressed by how they had embraced B Corp certification despite the complexity of their operations. Later, Phoebe reinforced this idea when she brought it to our Senior Leadership team, showing how it aligned with our values and goals.
How would you describe the journey to becoming a B Corp, and what were some of the biggest hurdles?
Phoebe Currie (PC): It was a much bigger project than we initially expected. The process is incredibly in-depth, covering every aspect of the business. This was ultimately a positive thing, as it made us more thoughtful about what we were trying to achieve. The most challenging part was the legal change to our articles and explaining what B Corp stands for to our team.
How does B Corp certification align with our mission and values?
Both: It integrates people, planet, and profit into everything we do. B Corp is a community of businesses committed to openly reporting their impact, which fosters integrity and innovation. It encourages us to think differently and respond creatively to our and our clients’ challenges.
What aspects of the B Corp framework are most inspiring?
AC: What excites me most is how B Corp feels like a living, breathing part of SLX. Unlike traditional certifications, it’s dynamic and reflective. Every three years, it gives us an opportunity to assess our journey and plan where we’re we want to go.
What practices have been implemented or improved thanks to our B Corp certification?
PC: Many, we’ve published impact reports for the past two years (with 2024’s coming soon) and helped some of our clients do the same. We track numerous holistic metrics as introduced to us by the B Corp framework and have improved the breadth of training for our teams including diversity and inclusivity training. We go as far as to support our clients in hosting events that follow the B Corp framework and have trained many of our team as mental health first aiders.
How has certification influenced relationships with our clients, partners, and suppliers?
Both: It’s been incredibly positive. Clients recognise the B Corp certification as a symbol of a business trying to be a force for good. It has positioned us as leaders and opened doors for collaboration with other B Corps and we’ve supported organisations like Babbasa and the Somerset Wildlands.
Can you highlight specific environmental or social achievements?
PC: Winning the 2024 Bristol Life Awards for Sustainability and the overall Platinum was a defining moment, showcasing how our commitment to B Corp principles has driven positive change. B Corp has also held us accountable for publishing thorough reports and designing events with a positive social and environmental footprint.
Q: How has B Corp status influenced SLX’s reputation in the industry?
AC: As one of the first in our industry to obtain B Corp certification, we’re seen as market leaders. People are impressed by the ethos running through our company and often approach us for advice on starting their own B Corp journey.
What are the next steps on our B Corp journey?
Both: Recertification in 2026 will be a key milestone, particularly as the standards evolve. We aim to improve our impact business model and further develop our impact service for clients. Offering more volunteer opportunities for staff is another area we’re excited to explore.
What excites you about the 2026 recertification?
PC: Launching our upcoming impact report and reflecting on how much we’ve grown since our initial certification.
How do you envision SLX inspiring others in the industry toward sustainability?
AC: By producing thought leadership pieces to inspire others and continually evaluating and communicating our own practices to drive positive change.
What advice would you give companies considering the B Corp journey?
Both: Don’t underestimate the time and commitment required, but don’t let that stop you. Just start. Use the free tools to measure your current impact and begin the journey.
Can you summarise SLX’s B Corp journey in one sentence?
AC: SLX’s B Corp journey has been a transformative experience, highlighting areas we hadn’t considered and enabling us to proactively drive change within our industry.
How has this journey shaped your perspective on sustainability and social value?
PC: B Corp’s holistic approach stands out by emphasising not just environmental impacts but also social and customer impacts. It’s a framework we should all embrace.
The holistic approach of B Corp has transformed how we view sustainability and social value. By addressing environmental, social, and customer impacts, it has given us a framework that not only reflects our goals but inspires us to aim higher.
