Shower enclosure brand Lakes has become B Corp certified, and says it is the first bathroom sector manufacturer to achieve the accolade.
B Corp certification requires companies to provide evidence of socially and environmentally responsible practices in energy supplies, waste and water use, worker compensation, diversity and corporate transparency.
Lakes’ accreditation means it has met the high thresholds required across all of its operations, including customer service, staff welfare and community support.
As part of its sustainable journey in recent years, Lakes has introduced 100% recyclable packaging, managed to achieve a 24% reduction in its carbon emissions between 2019 and 2023, and switched its UK operations entirely to 100% renewable energy sources.
In addition to operations at its Tewkesbury HQ, Lakes’ manufacturing site in Ningbo, China, was also scrutinised as part of the B Corp process. As a result, Lakes’ factory has become one of the first 100 companies in China to be awarded with B Corp status.
Mike Gahir, Lakes’ managing director, said the company was thrilled to have achieved the certification. He said: “Getting to this point has taken a sustained effort from everyone at the company as we work together to ensure that Lakes is hitting the highest standards across the board.
“This achievement is a reflection of who we are and how we do business, with honesty, transparency and accountability for our people, our community and the environment. The fact we are the first bathroom manufacturer in the world to achieve this is even more rewarding and an example of the forward thinking, innovative team we have here. Achieving B Corp status is not an end for us, it’s the start of a continued journey of excellence.”
Gahir continued: “We pride ourselves on our exemplary customer service – evidenced by our consistent 5* Trustpilot reviews – but we also foster a culture of fairness and integrity, so that our staff and the wider Lakes community always feel supported.
“I’m so proud that all of our hard work has been recognised and I want to thank everyone at Lakes for their efforts in making this happen.”