As B Corp Month begins in March, Stroud Brewery founder Greg Pilley is urging companies to integrate ethics and profitability rather than viewing them as opposites. He highlights how his brewery's B Corporation status has driven economic and community benefits while maintaining business success. The initiative celebrates the growing global movement of certified ethical businesses.
Stroud Brewery, based in Gloucestershire, UK, exemplifies the integration of ethical practices with commercial viability, according to founder Greg Pilley. During B Corp Month in March, Pilley argues that treating ethics and profit as mutually exclusive is outdated. He points to the brewery's achievements as proof that aligning business with people and the planet can yield competitive advantages, including customer loyalty and talent attraction.
B Corporation certification requires rigorous standards in social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability, with recertification every three years. Globally, over 10,300 companies in 103 countries hold this status, while the UK leads with more than 2,700 certified businesses employing over 200,000 people. In Gloucestershire, more than 80 firms, such as Hobbs House Bakery and Pro-Cook, have joined.
Founded in 2006, Stroud Brewery has injected £714,500 into the local economy in 2024-25, employs mostly local staff—with over 40% under age 24—and operates as a near net-zero enterprise. Pilley notes the recruitment benefits: “Our B Corporation status is a huge boost to finding great talent. When we’re recruiting, most applicants quote our ethical and sustainability activities as the reason why they want to work with us.”
The brewery prioritizes local suppliers to retain wealth in Gloucestershire and supports the community in return for past aid, including during the pandemic. In 2024-25, it donated £27,700 and provided free venue space to charities. It has been a Company Friend of Stroud Valleys Project for 20 years, aiding local nature regeneration.
Pilley reflects on the shift since 2006: “When we started... corporate social responsibility [was] nothing more than writing an occasional cheque to charity. Mixing business and sustainability was virtually unheard of. It’s fantastic to see how attitudes have shifted 180 degrees.” To mark the month, the brewery is running an Instagram competition for a hamper featuring products from fellow B Corps like Marshfield Farm ice cream and Tracklements.
