Session Overview
B Corp certification is becoming an increasingly important way for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to balancing purpose and profit. However, the journey to certification can often feel complex and time-consuming.
Join us for an insightful discussion with B Lab and Rathfinny Wine Estate as we explore both the practical steps involved in becoming a B Corp and the real-world experiences of a business that has been through the process. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of what certification involves, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and actionable advice for organisations considering their own B Corp journey.
Speakers
Annie Olivier, B Lab UK – The practical B Corp perspective, certification process, and key considerations.
Annie is Head of Growth at B Lab UK, the non profit organisation that certifies B Corps. With a background in environmental justice, social impact, and SME development, she focuses on how we can transform our economic systems through business for good. Since joining B Lab UK in 2022, she’s been focused on driving inclusion in the B Corp movement and supporting companies of all sizes, in all sectors, to transform their business through the use of B Lab standards.
Sarah Driver, Rathfinny Wine Estate – A real-life case study sharing Rathfinny’s B Corp journey, lessons learned, and what she wishes she had known before starting the process.
Sarah Driver is Co-Founder and Co-Owner of Rathfinny Wine Estate and Chair of the Driver Youth Trust. After a career as a commercial property lawyer and mediator, Sarah founded Rathfinny Wine Estate with her husband Mark in 2010 in East Sussex, helping to establish one of England’s leading sparkling wine estates. She has long combined business leadership with charitable and educational work, championing literacy, and responsible business practices.
Rathfinny is a family-owned wine estate in East Sussex, producing world-class sparkling wines served in some of the world’s finest hotels, restaurants and bars. In 2023, Rathfinny became the first single-site sparkling wine estate to achieve B Corp certification globally, reflecting its commitment to balancing exceptional wine production with nurturing the land, caring for people, and reducing it’s footprint.
Attendee Outcomes
By the end of the session, attendees will:
- Understand the fundamentals of B Corp certification.
- Gain practical insights into the certification process.
- Hear first-hand experiences from a certified B Corp organisation.
- Learn common pitfalls and lessons learned.
- Leave with actionable next steps for their own sustainability and purpose-led business journey.
Why attend
- Stay informed on the latest UK capital tax developments
- Understand how policy changes may impact family businesses
- Hear current market insights and transaction trends
- Learn practical strategies for succession planning and tax efficiency
- Benefit from shared experiences through case study examples and discussion
Who should attend?
Owners and senior leaders of family businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals involved in strategic, financial or succession planning.
Open to FBUK Members only.
Agenda:
- Welcome and introductions
- Overview of the topic and key considerations for businesses
- Case study: insights from a business experience
- Panel discussion exploring opportunities, challenges and practical lessons
- Audience Q&A
- Closing reflections and next steps
Time: 12:00 – 13:00
Location: Online