#Japan #B Corp #Kanazawa #Linnas Design

Introduction

Linnas Design, a hospitality company located in Kanazawa, Japan, has recently achieved the prestigious B Corp certification, a recognition bestowed by the nonprofit organization B Lab™. This certification is awarded to businesses committed to balancing profit-making with a positive social impact, environmental responsibility, and stakeholder engagement. With a score of 85.1 points on the B Impact Assessment™, Linnas Design has exceeded the required standard of 80 points, marking a significant milestone in its mission to foster a more sustainable business model.

What is B Corp?

B Corp™ stands for ‘Benefit Corporation’ and represents a global movement aimed at creating an inclusive economy that benefits all stakeholders, including employees, customers, communities, and the environment. The certification is based on rigorous assessments in five categories: governance, workers, community, environment, and customers. As of October 2025, over 10,000 companies in more than 102 countries, including 60 in Japan, have received B Corp certification, cementing its importance in the global business landscape.

Linnas Design's Commitment

Linnas Design’s commitment goes beyond mere certification. It aims to create a workplace where diverse crews can thrive, accepting individuals with disabilities and carefully tailoring support to their unique needs. This inclusive environment allows all employees to shine. The company believes in continuous professional growth, emphasizing both performance and individuality in its evaluation processes, which has resulted in successful career advancements for female team members.

Community Engagement

In addition to workplace diversity, Linnas Design places a strong emphasis on engaging with the community. Initiatives like ‘Plogging’ not only promote a cleaner environment but also foster connections among crew members, guests, and local residents. This activity has become a symbol of the company’s dedication to making Kanazawa a more welcoming place for everyone. The ‘Machi Dig’ program encourages employees to connect with the local culture and community through culinary exploration, thereby enhancing their ability to share the essence of Kanazawa with guests.

Environmental Initiatives

The company is also committed to reducing its environmental footprint. Efforts include minimizing single-use amenities, reducing plastic bottles, and implementing eco-friendly cleaning practices. Unique projects such as the ‘Recycling Umbrella’ and bamboo toothbrush sales engage guests in environmental conservation actively. Linnas Design welcomes its guests to contribute to sustainability through various initiatives, reinforcing the idea that together, they can foster a greener planet.

Looking Ahead

Achieving B Corp certification is just the beginning for Linnas Design. The company plans to enhance its business model to further intertwine living, working, and community lifestyles within their hospitality framework. By establishing spaces that accommodate long-term stays and support interaction among guests, local residents, and creators, the company aspires to position its hotels as platforms for a new lifestyle that benefits the entire community.

The focus will also be on nurturing “co-creative hotels” that act as cultural hubs where visitors and locals can engage through events, workshops, and partnerships with local industries and creators. By investing in creating spaces that facilitate small-scale events, Linnas Design aims to foster sustainable community development.

To achieve these goals, the organization recognizes the importance of employee well-being, understanding that happy employees contribute to superior service. Linnas Design is committed to enhancing well-being through coaching, flexible work arrangements, clear career paths, and health support.

Furthermore, environmental management will be reinforced by improving the ‘B-EMS’ system to ensure standardized eco-friendly hotel operations while minimizing waste and utilizing local and renewable resources.

Conclusion

The journey towards sustainability and responsible business practices is ongoing. CEO Akihiro Matsushita emphasizes that the B Corp certification is not an end but a milestone on the journey to creating a positive impact for society and the region. As Linnas Design continues to evolve and innovate, it aims to contribute not only to its growth but also to that of the community, creating a cycle of mutual development and prosperity. Therefore, for Linnas Design, hospitality is more than just service; it represents a commitment to creating comforting spaces where people come together, transcend boundaries, and cultivate a sense of belonging.

About Linnas Design

Founded in November 2020, Linnas Design is based in the heart of Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. With a mission to create new experiences in hospitality that connect people and places, the company is set to expand its presence within Japan and globally. For more information, visit Linnas Design’s website.