The Better Business Act has a mandate for change. Now the Government must listen.
Chris Turner shares how the Better Business Act is gaining political traction, from MPs visiting B Corps on the ground to growing conversations in Parliament. Each milestone reflects how business-led advocacy can turn bold ideals into real-world influence.
Something powerful is happening in the world of business. Across the UK, thousands of companies are stepping forward to show what the future of business looks like – business that puts people, planet and profit on equal footing. The Better Business Act campaign is now backed by over 3,000 businesses and organisations, united by a simple, ambitious idea: that every business in the UK should be legally required to align social and environmental impact with shareholder returns. This is more than a policy proposal. It’s a movement. And it’s gathering momentum.
Through ‘The Route to Better Business’, B Corps are showing MPs how purpose-driven business can drive change
This year, we launched ‘The Route to Better Business’ campaign to bring that movement to life – on the ground, in communities, and in front of policymakers. We set out to highlight the growing network of businesses already leading by example and to invite MPs to see the impact of stakeholder-led businesses firsthand. And that’s exactly what happened.
In May and June, B Corps and Better Business Act coalition members across the UK opened their doors to their local MPs:
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In Stroud, Dr Simon Opher MP visited Stroud Brewery, a business brewing sustainability into its DNA.
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In Devon, Martin Wrigley MP and Caroline Voaden MP met the team at Riverford Organic Farmers, experiencing a business built on employee ownership and regenerative agriculture.
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In Northamptonshire, Gen Kitchen MP explored the circular economy in real time at Fill Refill Co.
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In Brighton, Bird & Blend Tea Co. welcomed Siân Berry MP, sharing a taste of their inclusive leadership and climate strategy.
These weren’t just informative visits. They sparked genuine political engagement – demonstrating how future-fit businesses can drive local impact and national change. Following his visit, Dr Simon Opher MP took the campaign into Parliament, tabling a question to the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, asking what the government is doing to get businesses to act in the public interest. This is what momentum looks like. Business leaders and elected officials standing shoulder to shoulder, calling for a system that supports long-term value over short-term profit.
A powerful moment in Parliament – Better Business Day 2025
That growing momentum was on full display on 11 June, when we brought together over 200 business leaders, MPs and campaigners at the House of Commons for Better Business Day – a major milestone for the campaign.
Campaign co-chairs Mary Portas and Douglas Lamont, CEO of Tony’s Chocolonely, made a compelling case for long-term thinking and legal reform. We heard cross-party support from MPs including Martin Wrigley, who introduced the Company Directors (Duties) Bill, and Lord Leong, Labour’s spokesperson for Business & Trade, who stated: “When businesses prioritise people, planet and profit, they help deliver what this Government is working for: higher wages, lower emissions, stronger communities, and a more resilient economy.” This is no longer a fringe idea. It’s a mainstream conversation gaining traction in Westminster.
A step forward in reforming Section 172 of the Companies Act
On 4 July, the Company Directors (Duties) Bill had its second reading in the House of Commons. The Bill directly supports the Better Business Act by proposing a change to Section 172 of the Companies Act – empowering directors to consider all stakeholders, not just shareholders, when making decisions. Although the Bill wasn’t debated due to time constraints, it marks a significant step forward. Martin Wrigley MP delivered a passionate speech in support of reform, stating: “The current model fuels short-termism. It’s time to reform Section 172 and empower directors to put people, planet and profit on equal footing.”
When a Private Member’s Bill like this gets a reading, it signals that there’s real interest in Parliament. But real change requires government support to move from promising proposals to lasting legislation. Encouragingly, government Minister Justin Madders MP expressed interest in the campaign’s aims and a willingness to explore the Bill further. Now is the time to build on that momentum and turn interest into action. We need to keep the pressure on.
What’s next: join thousands leading the change for better business
The world is changing fast – and business must change with it. Climate breakdown, social inequality and economic instability require new thinking and bold action. The Better Business Act is a practical and timely solution: a way to ensure that every company plays a positive role in building a stronger, more resilient economy that works for everyone. And the momentum is real.
Whether you’ve been with us from the start or are hearing about this campaign for the first time – now is the time to act. You have the power to help shift the system. Here’s how you can support the Better Business Act right now:
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Write to your MP – With The 'Audit Reform and Corporate Governance Bill' on the horizon, your MP needs to hear from you now – use our web form to request a meeting and help drive the change we need.
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Host a visit – Show your MP what better business looks like in action. Access our MP Engagement Toolkit to get started.
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Spread the word – Share the campaign on social media using our Take Action Toolkit.
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Join the coalition – If your business hasn’t signed up yet, now’s the time.
The Better Business Act coalition is proof that companies want to do more – and are already doing more – to tackle society’s most urgent challenges. But to turn momentum into meaningful change, we need more voices, more stories, and more action. Together, we’re creating a new normal for all UK businesses. So if you believe in a better future – one where business helps solve problems, not create them – join us on the route to better business.