We’re super proud to announce that OTIS has recently certified as a B Corp. For those who aren’t sure what a B Corp is, the certification assesses companies for their impact across a range of areas from environment to social responsibility. Over the last decade, it has become the gold-standard in making sure businesses use their influence as a force for good in the world.
At first, we were confident when tackling the certification. We are always striving to do the right thing wherever we can. We had already made decisions to reduce plastic in our packaging and to move to more environmentally friendly frame materials including Eco-Acetate and Eco-Grilamid. We only use 100% recyclable mineral glass in all our sunglasses because the world doesn’t need more plastic. But, then we saw the task ahead. Only a fraction of brands who start the process actually end up certifying. It challenges the foundations of your business and why you do what you do.
“I was actually really surprised that we were pursuing B Corp as its no mean feat,” explains OTIS Brand & Product Manager, Sally Kerr. “The fact they measure a whole business and not just certain aspects is really challenging. My surprise changed to feeling pretty proud that I work for a brand who has the ability and confidence to apply.”
After the first round of points, we saw there were more changes we needed to make if we wanted to be a true force for good across the board.
So, we made the changes.
Our crew actively participated in volunteering programs, we hired an even more inclusive team, our parent company ratified our constitution to consider all stakeholders in decision-making (not just shareholders). Those changes were made with a sense of excitement too. A sense of confidence we’re doing these things for something bigger than ourselves. It’s not really about the certification. It’s about the purpose behind it. To do more than earn a living. To live and breathe a lifestyle you believe in.
We’ve really taken on board our rallying cry to "Reframe the Future". To do what we can, where we can, as fast as we can, and make things better. While we certified with a solid score, there’s still a lot of work to do and a lot of positive changes to make. Thanks to B Corp, we now have a solid framework to make that happen, and a team excited about the next steps ahead.
To follow our journey join the OTIS community on Instagram here.
