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As consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental and social impacts of businesses, Toronto-based Kotn has emerged as a shining example of what it means to be a responsible, stylish, and impactful fashion brand.
The story of how Kotn became a certified B Corporation, earning the prestigious “Best for the World” title in the community category, is a testament to their unwavering commitment to sustainability, ethics, and making a positive difference in the world.
Direct Trade for Sustainable Impact
Kotn’s journey begins with a simple approach—direct trade practices that form the foundation of their commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing. They source their raw cotton directly from small-holder farmers in Egypt. By eliminating intermediaries and working directly with farmers, Kotn ensures fair wages and treatment throughout their supply chain.
This direct trade approach has a ripple effect. It not only benefits the farmers but also leads to better prices for Kotn’s customers. It’s a win-win scenario that epitomizes the brand’s dedication to fairness.
The B Corporation Difference
To understand the significance of Kotn’s journey, it’s important to grasp what it means to be a certified B Corporation. B Corporations are businesses that have met rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, legal accountability, and public transparency. They use their influence to drive positive change, both within their own operations and in the broader world.
For Kotn, the decision to pursue B Corporation certification was a conscious step toward being held accountable for their commitment to communities and the environment. It wasn’t just about adhering to ethical principles; it was about demonstrating a tangible dedication to those principles.
The Path to Certification
Becoming a certified B Corporation is not a straightforward process. Companies like Kotn undergo a thorough verification process that evaluates every aspect of their business, from their model and operations to their structure and work processes. Transparency is key, and this information is meticulously reviewed by the B Lab, the organization behind B Corporation certification.
One of the central tools in this evaluation is the B Impact Assessment scale. This tool measures a company’s impact on various fronts, including its workers, community, environment, and customers. To achieve B Corporation certification, a company must attain a score of 80 or higher out of a possible 200 points, indicating a strong commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
From Farm to Hanger: 100% Traceability
One of Kotn’s defining principles is transparency. They offer 100% traceability from the farm where the cotton is grown to the hanger where the final product hangs. This level of transparency is a testament to their commitment to accountability.
When you purchase a Kotn product, you’re not just buying a piece of clothing; you’re buying into a story. You’re supporting an ecosystem of responsible sourcing and ethical practices that extends from the cotton fields to the production facilities. It’s a level of transparency that empowers consumers to make informed choices.
Investing in Communities
Kotn’s impact isn’t confined to their supply chain; it extends to the communities they work with. A portion of every order is reinvested into the creation of jobs, infrastructure, systems, and education. This strategic investment isn’t about charity; it’s about creating shared, sustainable growth.
To date, Kotn’s impact is substantial. They’ve funded the construction of 10 primary schools, contributing to education and opportunities for countless children. Additionally, they’ve built 7 vital pieces of infrastructure, ensuring that communities have access to essential resources.
Recognition and Ranking
Kotn’s journey towards becoming a B Corporation didn’t end with certification; it continued with an unwavering focus on creating lasting change. Their impressive progress is evident in their B Impact Assessment score, which increased by an impressive 25.8 points since their initial evaluation in 2017. Today, their score stands at 121.3 out of 200, placing them among the top apparel B Corporations in North America.
What’s even more remarkable is that Kotn has been recognized as “Best for the World.” This prestigious honour is awarded to certified B Corporations with assessment scores in the top 10% globally and the top 5% worldwide. Kotn’s dedication to sustainable growth in their supply chain has truly set them apart.
All images in this article are courtesy of Kotn.
