Pizza Pilgrims gains B Corp status

Pizza Pilgrims has joined the small number of UK hospitality businesses that hold B Corp status.

For a business to be certified as a B Corp it must be assessed by B Labs, a non-profit organisation that audits its ethical standards and requires a legal commitment to bring benefit to shareholders, workers, customers, and the planet.

There are currently more than 1,500 B Corp businesses in the UK, who are required to re-certify every three years.

Founder Thom Elliot said: "Ever since I first read about B Corp I have felt it is a movement that I want Pizza Pilgrims to be a part of. We started the company to be a source of happiness – both for ourselves, but also our employees, customers, and the communities we serve.

"To have B Corp as a hugely credible third-party guide and inspiration for ensuring Pizza Pilgrims is a force for good in the future is an exciting step and one I am proud to have achieved with the team."

Pizza Pilgrims, which was founded by Thom and brother James, analysed every area of its business over two years as it worked to achieve the status. Among the changes made was a legal commitment to be accountable to all stakeholders, not just shareholders.

The business said it hopes to be a source of inspiration and education to other hospitality businesses keen to join the movement.

Pizza Pilgrims opened its first permanent pizzeria in 2013 and now has more than 20 sites across the UK.