Fairfield, Connecticut-based Bigelow Tea has achieved recertification as a Certified B Corporation, joining more than 6,000 companies globally that are committed to using their businesses as a force for social and environmental change.
Cindi Bigelow, third-generation president and CEO, carries on her grandmother’s legacy by giving back to people and the planet.
“Being certified, and now recertified, as a B Corp officially recognizes a commitment that has been part of the company’s DNA since it was founded by my grandmother, Ruth Campbell Bigelow, more than 75 years ago,” Bigelow said.
“Recertification proves how intentional we remain behind our commitment to a purpose far beyond making profits and our aim to always do better. We’re committed to good citizenship, ethical business practices, accountability and transparency, protecting the environment, sustainability and supporting our communities.”
In order to be certified/recertified as a B Corp, a company goes through an assessment of its business practices. The evaluation is conducted by B Lab, a nonprofit that measures how a company treats workers, suppliers, the environment and the community. B Lab Auditors examine the company’s social and environmental performance to verify operations are adhering to the highest standards.
Bigelow Tea uses the assessment as a tool to celebrate strengths and identify areas of opportunity. As a result, the organization establishes a road map to identify short- and long-term goals. In terms of the environment, focus areas have included mapping a global carbon footprint and achieving a Green-e certification (facilities are powered by 100 percent renewable energy). The next wave of improvement areas for Bigelow Tea are being drafted by a task force and evaluated at the executive level.
Bigelow Tea has held charitable initiatives centered around the annual Community Challenge, which recently celebrated its 35th anniversary. A community-supported road race and walk, efforts have contributed more than $2 million to local non-profits since 1988.
“Our mission statement calls for ‘making a difference everyday.’ B Corp certification and recertification is a good benchmark to show our progress against this goal,” Bigelow said.
Producing two billion tea bags annually, the Bigelow Tea portfolio includes more than 150 varieties of flavored, traditional, green, herbal, decaffeinated, Steep by Bigelow Organic, Bigelow Benefits wellness teas and Bigelow Botanicals cold water infusions. The company’s products are available nationwide.
