The Rise of B Corps in the Flexible Workspace Industry

Business has evolved beyond just making money. Today, consumers appreciate companies that prioritise purpose, and employees seek workplaces that genuinely care. As a result, businesses are stepping up to create a positive impact. Enter the B Corp movement—a global certification for businesses that balance profit with purpose.

What is a B Corp, Anyway?

A B Corp (short for Benefit Corporation) is a business that’s officially recognised for its positive impact —whether that’s looking after employees, reducing environmental impact, or giving back to the community. Basically, it’s like a Michelin star, but for ethics.

To get certified, businesses must pass the B Impact Assessment, scoring at least 80 points out of 200. The test covers governance, employee treatment, environmental policies, and social impact. The process is rigorous but for those committed, totally worth it

Why Are B Corps Taking Over the Flexible Workspace Industry?

Flexible office providers are often future-forward organisations who, like their product, like to be agile and to keep up with the expectations and values of their members. It’s not just about fancy coffee and unlimited meeting rooms—it’s about sustainability, social responsibility, and fostering communities that actually care.

Businesses renting office space aren’t just looking for desks anymore. They want a workspace that reflects their values, reduces their carbon footprint, and helps them attract employees who care about more than just a paycheck.

B Corp-certified workspace providers tick all these boxes. By prioritising ethical business practices, they’re creating work environments that don’t just look good but do good too.

What’s the Big Deal About B Corp Certification?

Aside from bragging rights and an excuse to celebrate with organic prosecco, becoming a B Corp comes with some serious benefits:

Boosted Reputation – Clients and partners love companies that walk the talk when it comes to sustainability and ethics.

Top Talent Magnet – More and more people want to work for companies that align with their values.

Stronger Business Growth – B Corps tend to attract loyal customers, investors, and partners who are in it for the long haul.

A Global Support Network – Join a worldwide community of like-minded businesses doing awesome things.

Runway East - A B Corp since 2022

Here at Runway East, we’re big believers in doing things the right way. We have been B Corp certified since 2022, and even still, we’re constantly working on making our spaces even greener, our communities even stronger, and our impact even bigger. We know that the future of work isn’t just about having the best workspace (although, spoiler alert, we do)—it’s about creating something meaningful. 

FAQs

What are the benefits of B Corp certification?

Other than looking super impressive on your website? Certification helps businesses build trust, attract talent, grow sustainably, and connect with other purpose-driven brands.

How does the B Corp certification process work?

It’s like an exam, but instead of cramming at the last minute, you have to prove your business genuinely operates responsibly. You take the B Impact Assessment, meet the standards, make legal changes to lock in your commitment and get verified by B Lab.

What are the requirements for B Corp certification?

You need to score at least 80 out of 200 on the B Impact Assessment, legally commit to considering all stakeholders (not just shareholders), and be transparent about your impact.

What standards does B Corp certification use?

Governance, workers, community, environment, and customers—basically, everything that makes a business more than just a money-making machine.

How much does B Corp certification cost?

Fees are based on your revenue, for a small business, they start from a few hundred pounds per year for the submission fee, verification fee, and then the annual fee on top of that.

How does B Corp certification work in the UK?

It follows global standards but is managed by B Lab UK, which supports British businesses through the process. The UK’s B Corp community is growing fast, with over 1,000 companies now certified.

Is Runway East a B Corp?

Yes, we have been a proud B Corp since 2022!

What does Runway East actually do?

We provide flexible office spaces for startups, scaleups, and businesses that want to work somewhere fun, productive, and community-driven. Plus, we throw a cracking party.

Where can I find Runway East locations?

Across London, Bristol, Bath, Brighton and Birmingham! 

How does Runway East support sustainability?

At Runway East, we take our impact seriously. We partner with fellow B Corp, Interaction, to ensure our sites are built using recycled or sustainable materials. Most locations have bike storage to promote greener commuting, and our spaces run on 100% renewable energy. We use smart thermostats, occupancy sensors, and a rigorous composting and recycling system. Our cleaning partners are paid a living wage and use non-toxic products. We're always finding new ways to reduce our carbon footprint and improve our impact!

Final Thoughts

The bottom line? B Corps are becoming more and more prominent and important to those who are choosing flexible offices, and we’re 100% here for it. As businesses demand workspaces that reflect their values, the rise of B Corp-certified providers is only going to grow. 

Fancy joining a workspace that’s big on community, sustainability, and actually giving a damn? Want to read more about our commitment to doing better? Read out Impact Report HERE.