Ardent Pub Group joins a small number of pub operators to have secured the status, including The Culpeper Family Hospitality Group and The Pig Hotels, which operates a number of concepts that blur the lines between pubs and hotels.
BrewDog, the Scotland-based brewer and pub operator, previously achieved B Corp certification but stepped away from the scheme three years ago.
B Corp certification is more common in the restaurant sector. Groups that hold the status include Hawksmoor, Blacklock, Pizza Pilgrims and Caravan.
Central to Ardent’s accreditation is its commitment to charitable partnerships across the portfolio, donating nearly £100,000 to charitable and community causes since inception.
The George supports mental health charity Shout, a free and confidential 24/7 UK text messaging service, through initiatives across the year including No Shave November and fundraising quizzes.
The Hound partners with Polytechnic FC to champion grassroots sport and local participation, with sponsorship providing new kits to mark the club’s 150th anniversary and the launch of its first-ever women’s team.
Meanwhile, The Cadogan Arms partners with the Kensington & Chelsea Foundation to support initiatives addressing inequality, poverty and social disparity within the borough.
“Achieving B Corp certification is a milestone and a hugely proud moment for me and for the entire Ardent team. Becoming B Corp certified reflects the values we have built the business on from day one — from supporting our communities and teams to operating responsibly and with purpose,” says founder and managing director Dominic Jacobs.
The accreditation follows the recent acquisition of Ardent Pub Group through a private investment round led by Jacobs from JKS Restaurants.
The business will now move into its next phase of growth, targeting eight new openings across London and beyond over the next three to five years.