Member News
Definition IP is the first Chartered UK and Irish Patent Attorney firm to join the growing movement of companies using business as a force for good
Newcastle, UK and Dublin, Ireland, 7 June 2024 — Definition IP has today announced its certification as a B Corporation® (or B Corp™), joining a growing movement of companies that are reinventing business for the benefit of all people and our shared planet. Verified by B Lab, the not-for-profit behind the B Corp™ movement, the achievement demonstrates that Definition IP meets high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability alongside a commitment to goals beyond shareholder value.
B Corp Certification assesses the entirety of a business’ operations and currently covers five main impact areas: Governance, Workers, Community, Environment and Customers. The certification process is rigorous, with companies required to reach a score of 80 points in the B Impact Assessment while providing evidence of responsible practices relating to energy supplies, waste and water use, worker compensation and wellbeing, diversity, and corporate transparency. A business must also legally embed their commitment to purpose as well as profit in their company articles.
Definition IP is now part of a growing community of businesses globally that have certified as B Corps™. The B Corp™ community spans a range of different industries and sizes. Whilst a growing number of solicitors firms in the UK have become B Corp™ certified, Definition IP are the first firm of Chartered Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys to achieve B Corp™ accreditation in the UK or Ireland.
Definition IP is also part of the Better Business Act — a coalition made up of over 2,000 businesses campaigning for a change to the law that would see all companies in the UK align their long-term interests with those of wider society and the environment.
Eimear Sampson, Director of Definition IP Limited, who led the firm’s B Corp™ application commented:
"We are incredibly proud to have achieved B Corp™ certification. The principles of B Corp™ resonate deeply with our desire to empower our people, act as a force for good in our communities, and minimise our environmental impact. This accreditation is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our entire team."
Claire Rutherford, Director of Definition IP Limited, adds:
"Joining the B Corp™ community is a significant step for Definition IP. Achieving B Corp™ status is just the beginning. We are excited to continue our journey towards greater impact, ensuring that our business practices consistently reflect our values."
Chris Turner, executive director of B Lab UK, says:
“We are delighted to welcome Definition IP to the B Corp™ community. This is a movement of companies that are committed to changing how business operates and believe business really can be a force for good. We know that Definition IP is going to be a fantastic addition to the community and will continue driving the conversation forward.”
