EcoPlum Achieves B Corporation Recertification, Emphasizing Sustainability Commitment

EcoPlum's Recertification Journey as a B Corporation

On January 31, 2025, EcoPlum proudly announced its recertification as a B Corporation (B Corp) from the nonprofit B Lab. Having first received this certification in 2022, EcoPlum's recent achievement marks its second three-year certification period and showcases its ongoing commitment to sustainable business practices. The company's B Impact Assessment (BIA) score improved to 86.4, a rise of 3.8 points from its previous certification, highlighting its dedication to continuous improvement.

The Importance of B Corporations

B Corporations represent a global community of businesses striving to meet high standards of social and environmental responsibility. They operate under legal commitments that prioritize stakeholder governance, ensuring accountability and transparency by publicly disclosing performance records. Currently, there are over 9,500 Certified B Corporations operating in more than 105 countries and spanning over 160 industries. This community is spearheading a movement towards an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy, including EcoPlum, which contributes to the $26 billion promotional products industry.

Despite being a smaller segment, sustainable distributors like EcoPlum play a significant role, accounting for approximately $3 billion (12%) of the industry’s revenue, according to the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI). Many well-known brands, such as Patagonia and Ben & Jerry's, join EcoPlum within the B Corp community.

Rigorous Standards for Recertification

B Corporations must recertify every three years by updating their B Impact Assessment (BIA) and validating their new score. EcoPlum achieved its recertification with a score well above the minimum requirement of 80 points—attesting to the quality of its social and environmental practices. Interestingly, while over 200,000 businesses have utilized the B Impact Assessment, only about 5% have secured certification. For context, the median score for regular businesses that complete the assessment is only 50.9, showcasing EcoPlum's distinguished standing.

Gia Machlin, EcoPlum’s President and CEO, stated, "Recertifying EcoPlum as a B Corp is another major milestone that reinforces our commitment to using business as a force for good to create a more sustainable planet!"

Beyond B Corp Certification

EcoPlum's achievement as a recertified B Corp adds to its portfolio. The company also holds an EcoVadis Silver Medal and is recognized as a Green America Gold Business. Additionally, it is triple-certified as a women-owned enterprise by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), along with New York State and New York City certifications. Furthermore, EcoPlum collaborates with various associations, including the American Sustainable Business Network and the Fair Labor Association.

What is EcoPlum?

EcoPlum operates as a nationally certified B Corporation that specializes in branded marketing solutions through its Sustainable Swag® product line. This innovative approach to promotional products emphasizes eco-friendly options, providing clients with customized gifts that symbolize their sustainable values. In line with its mission to mitigate plastic waste, EcoPlum ensures its product sourcing includes USDA organic, fair trade, biodegradable, and other certified materials, while also engaging with socially conscious suppliers.

To discover more about EcoPlum’s sustainable solutions, you can visit their website at EcoPlum.com or engage with them across various social media platforms.

Understanding the B Lab Certification Process

B Lab, the organization responsible for B Corp certifications, aims to transform the global economy for the benefit of all communities and the planet. Their certification process evaluates a company's social and environmental impacts, necessitating a minimum score of 80 points on the B Impact Assessment. Once certified, businesses are encouraged to demonstrate continuous improvement over time, aligning profit with purpose.

In conclusion, EcoPlum's recent recertification as a B Corp stands as a testament to its relentless pursuit of sustainability and ethical business practices, setting an inspiring example for others in the industry.