Dutch retailer Albert Heijn receives the B-Corp certificate, an award for companies that pursue social and environmental impact in addition to profit. According to the company, it is the first supermarket in the world to obtain the certificate. It had been focusing on getting the award since April 2023.
To obtain B-Corp certification, companies undergo an extensive audit. The assessment covers the company's entire operation and measures the positive impact of the company in areas of governance, workers, community, the environment, as well as the product or service the company provides. Candidates must score at least 80 points on the audit, 200 points is the maximum. Albert Heijn scored 97.9 points, and the retailer is happy with the score. Companies must re-certify every three years to retain B Corporation status.