News
LDC-backed Zip World soars to new heights with prestigious B Corp Certification
23 Aug 2024
Zip World, one of the UK’s premier outdoor adventure businesses, has announced its B Corporation (B Corp) Certification, joining a global community of businesses committed to the highest social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency standards.
This certification places Zip World among a group of only 18 other adventure tourism organisations worldwide and one of just 47 B Corp-certified companies in Wales.
Achieving B Corp status is the culmination of an 18-month evaluation process, assessing operations across five key areas: Governance, Workers, Community, Environment, and Customers. Zip World provided evidence of responsible practices relating to energy supplies, waste and water use, worker compensation, diversity, and corporate transparency.
The company proudly scored an impressive 96 points, surpassing the 80-point threshold required for certification, and has set its sights on leading the way for responsible adventure tourism.
Among its achievements, the company performed highest in the ‘Workers’ category through its comprehensive training programmes including personal financial management for staff. Over the past decade, the company has successfully recruited from local communities, focusing on low-income and veteran demographics, while fostering long-term partnerships with local suppliers.
Zip World also earned significant recognition in the ‘Environment’ category for its adoption of solar energy and use of grey water. Moving forward, each of the company’s seven sites will set specific goals to promote sustainable visitor behaviour by introducing a new electric bus network that connects its locations with surrounding rural communities.
We’re incredibly proud to have been awarded B Corp Certification. The recognition aligns with our ambition to use business as a force for good. The B Corp framework will help to guide our continuous improvement strategy and realise our mission to unleash the adventure in all of us, in a way that benefits society.
Andrew continued: “The high standards required to maintain B Corp Certification will be met by the entire business, with each department contributing towards a common goal.”
Zip World, which has been backed by LDC since 2018, offers over 30 exhilarating experiences across seven sites in England and Wales, including the world’s fastest zip line at Penrhyn Quarry, where visitors can soar at speeds exceeding 100 mph. The business attracts over 600,000 adventure enthusiasts each year.
Alex Bexon, ESG Director at LDC, added: “This is a significant accomplishment that reflects Zip World’s commitment to making a positive contribution to its people, society and the environment. At LDC, we’re actively supporting our portfolio companies in strengthening their ESG credentials and seeing a growing number of businesses looking for ways to evidence their positive impact. B Corp certification is an excellent way to do so and I’d like to congratulate the team on their achievement.”
Recertification is required every three years to maintain B Corp status and will ensure Zip World continues to push boundaries and lead the industry in sustainable adventure tourism.
