Nc'nean distillery celebrates B Corp certification

Nc'nean has become the second Scottish whisky maker to achieve B Corporation (B Corp) certification.

Awarded by non-profit organisation B Lab, the certification signifies companies that are focused on operating and growing in environmentally and socially conscious ways, prizing purpose alongside profit.

The certification covers five key areas: governance, workers, community, environment and customers.

Nc'nean has put environmental sustainability at the core of its operations since launching in 2013. It was named the UK's first net zero whisky distillery in July last year, and was named Sustainable Distillery of the Year in the Icons of Whisky 2021.

The distillery on the Morven peninsula is powered by 100 per cent renewable energy and is certified organic, sourcing barley exclusively from Scotland. Its whisky is bottled in 100 per cent recycled clear glass bottles.

It is the second whisky distillery in Scotland to be awarded the certification, after Bruichladdich on Islay. Other UK drinks companies to hold the certification include gin distiller Sipsmith, rum brand Hattiers, and Scotland's Brewgooder.

Nc'nean founder Annabel Thomas said: "I've long admired the B Corp movement and many of its members so I'm very proud to finally be able to call ourselves a B Corp. Here at Nc'nean, we are very familiar with certification processes, but B Corp is by far the most comprehensive and rigorous process we have been through."

Chris Turner, executive director of B Corp, said: "Business is a powerful force and B Corps demonstrate that you can do good in any sector. Welcoming Nc'nean is an exciting moment because they have an opportunity to lead the way within the whisky industry."

9 February 2022 - Bethany Whymark