Voting with your wallet is becoming an increasingly popular choice for conscious consumers, but it’s not always easy to spot the local heroes you should be spending your cash with.
Let’s talk about the B Corp movement – ever heard of it? Don’t worry, lots of people haven’t! Basically, the ‘B‘ stands for ‘Benefit for All‘, and it’s a certification that only goes to businesses doing real work to make the world a better place. We’re talking sustainability, transparency, and ethical practices that give back to people, communities, and the planet.
And guess what? Brighton is one of the top spots in the UK for B Corp businesses – right behind London, Bristol, and Manchester. March is B Corp month, so here are 10 amazing Brighton-based B Corps you need to know about if you’re looking to shop smarter and greener.
1. Permit Room
Love to eat out? Permit Room has you covered with mouthwatering Bombay-style curries, snacks, breakfasts and cocktails – it’s part of the London-famous Dishoom family. But what really sets them apart is their meal-for-a-meal initiative. Every single meal you eat there helps feed a hungry child somewhere in the world. (They’ve donated over 20 million meals so far!) Their philosophy is all about happy teams, awesome service, and top-notch food because, as they say, “Revenue and profit are just the applause that follow”.
2. Seed Digital Marketing Agency
If you think marketing agencies are all about numbers and profits, think again. Seed, a Brighton-based performance marketing agency, is shaking things up. They specialise in SEO, PR, and social media strategies to help purpose-driven brands grow. Seed got their B Corp badge in 2023 after four years of fine-tuning how they work – supporting local charities, embracing flexible work, and always aiming to do business better. As their co-founder, Nick Miller, puts it: “It’s about evolving, learning, and challenging the old ways”.
3. Bird & Blend
Bird & Blend, Brighton’s beloved tea brand, has their flagship store right next to Komedia, on Gardner Street. Renowned for fun blends like Gingerbread Chai and Blue Raspberry, these guys are all-in on sustainability, using eco-friendly packaging and ethically sourced ingredients. They’re also big on giving back, whether that’s with mental health awareness programmes or by creating a workplace culture where everyone thrives. Shopping for tea never felt so good.
4. Spark & Bell
Looking to light up your home sustainably? Indie brand Spark & Bell is your go-to for handmade, stylish lighting made with ethically sourced materials. They’re all about reducing waste, from their production process to their packaging – and they even offer repair services to keep your lights shining for years. Getting gorgeous home décor and a clear conscience at the same time – what’s not to love?
5. The Body Shop
The 90s called, they want you to shop sustainably! Yes, The Body Shop is a global icon that’s been around for decades, but it’s still got that Brighton vibe we love. Their store here is a haven for eco-conscious shoppers, complete with refill stations and a focus on cruelty-free, fair-trade products. This legendary brand has been championing sustainability long before it was trendy, and they’re not stopping any time soon.
6. Plus Accounting
Okay, accountants might not scream ‘exciting,’ but Plus Accounting are actually doing some pretty cool stuff. They’re showing the world that even financial services can have a positive impact. From offering free support to charities to running workshops for small businesses on financial sustainability, this B Corp is all about giving back and being transparent.
7. Beryl Bikes
Those lovely turquoise bikes you see around town? They’re part of a B Corp, too! Say goodbye to traffic and hello to eco-friendly transport with Beryl Bikes. This bike-share service makes getting around Brighton a breeze, and their bikes are built with recycled materials to keep things green. Plus, Beryl is all about investing in cycling infrastructure, helping cities like Brighton become more sustainable and bike-friendly. Our current fave cycling route is from Brighton Pier all along the seafront to Saltdean, ending at the lovely White Cliffs cafe for a well-deserved coffee.
8. Projects
Need a workspace that’s more than just a desk? Projects is a stylish co-working space in Brighton that’s all about sustainability, collaboration, and creativity. They’ve designed their space with the planet in mind, using energy-efficient materials and supporting local businesses. With two beautiful buildings open in the heart of Brighton, one in the Lanes and one moments from the beach, plus many more set to open across the UK, Projects houses a connected community of collaborative businesses.
9. Materialise Interiors
Time to level up your home with Materialise Interiors, a Brighton-based brand creating bespoke furniture with sustainability at its heart. They use reclaimed materials and minimise waste, proving that stylish design doesn’t have to come at a cost to the planet. Want to make your space beautiful and eco-friendly? These are your people.
10. Finisterre
Originally created to meet the needs of hardy British surfers, Finisterre make enduring outdoor wear for an inspired life in and around the sea. If you love outdoor adventures, you’ll want to check them out. The sustainable clothing brand is all about high-performance gear made with recycled fabrics and ethical supply chains. They also host repair workshops, so you can keep your clothes in action for years – because sustainability is all about making things last.
Have we missed any of your favourite Brighton B Corp businesses? Let us know!
