The Social Hub receives B Corp certification

The Glasgow property offers a mix of student, hotel, extended and business stays and launched earlier this year, marking the Social Hub’s entry into the UK market.

The business as a whole employs over 1,000 staff and also has a student accommodation, food and beverage, events and coworking spaces arm.

It achieved an overall score of 107.1 out of a maximum of 200 points, beating the average score of 94 for successful B Corp applicants.

As part of its sustainability pledges, the company has committed to reducing 78% of its greenhouse gas emissions, producing half of its energy on-site, and diverting 100% of residual waste from landfill or incineration.

It has also promised to donate 1% of revenues to the recently launched non-profit organisation, TSH Talent Foundation, as well as collaborating with the Better Society Academy and Talent Garden to upskill the next generation of hospitality workers.

Amber Westerborg, director of sustainability and impact at the Social Hub, said: “Customer demand and the rising significance of sustainability amongst travellers, business owners, students, and the wider public are, of course, an important factor in our pursuit of B Corp certification. However, the biggest driver has been our ambition to be accountable and set ourselves apart on the positive impact we can make on the planet and the global community.

“This is a massive milestone in the Social Hub’s journey. Other environmental certifications are important, but B Corp matters to us because it best reflects who we are as a community, the impact we have, and where we want to get to.”

Charlie MacGregor, founder and chief executive at the Social Hub, added: “As a large hybrid hospitality company that will soon grow to operate 23 hubs, and counting, across Europe, we feel the responsibility to keep innovating for the greater good and a more sustainable hospitality sector. B Corp certification is just the beginning. We plan to open more hubs and welcome millions of guests, including students, the next generation of leaders and a central part of our unique community-building model. From here, our contribution to creating a better society will only get bigger and bolder.”

There are more than 9,000 B Corp businesses around the world, over 200 of which operate within the hospitality sector.