London-based Ardent Pub Group achieves B Corp certification

Ardent Pub Group, formerly known as JKS Pubs, has achieved B Corp certification.

It is believed to be the second UK pub group to have secured the accreditation.

The business was founded in 2021 with the launch of the Cadogan Arms pub in London’s Chelsea by investors JKS Restaurants, Dominic Jacobs of the Running Horse pub in London’s Mayfair and James Knappett of the two-Michelin-starred Kitchen Table in London’s Fitzrovia.

Late last year, the pub group, which is also behind the George in London’s Fitzrovia and the Hound in London’s Chiswick, rebranded as Ardent after being bought out by Jacobs and a private US investor.

At the time, Ardent Pub Group revealed plans to open eight new venues across London and beyond over the next three to five years.

Its B Corp application was strengthened by the business’ commitment to charitable partnerships, with Ardent having donated £100,000 to community causes since its inception, such as Shout, No Shave November, and Polytechnic FC.

Dominic Jacobs, founder and managing director of Ardent Pub Group, said: “Achieving B Corp certification is a milestone and hugely proud moment for me and for the entire Ardent team. Becoming B Corp certified reflects the values we have built the business on from day one - from supporting our communities and teams to operating responsibly and with purpose.”

Other B Corp hospitality businesses include Houston & Hawkes, Dinner Ladies, Fallow, Hawksmoor and Exclusive Collection.