A Look Back At B Corps at the Beach

By Lucy Cleland

4 days ago

Think big Cornish house party with friends who all have huge amounts in common


Country & Town House partied with purpose at a Cornish gathering at THE PIG-at Harlyn Bay, as part of the first B Corps at the Beach event

A Look Back At B Corps On The Beach

When some people think about sustainability, you can’t help but see the beginnings of a stifled yawn. But this stuff can be fun, trust us. And so it was that on the mid-west coast of Cornwall, against the beautiful backdrop of this rugged coastline, a dynamic mix of thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers gathered for a two-day beach party (with purpose) at THE PIG-at Harlyn Bay. 

Panel talk at B Corps at the Beach

And it all started with a train journey. Guests hopped aboard at London Paddington to Bodmin Parkway train, enjoying a scenic ride (noses deep in copies of Great British Brands), before reaching the warmth and comfort of THE PIG-at Harlyn Bay. Greeted by event curator James Rae, founder of Good Company, and sustainable supper club series, Good Nights, with the support from local candlemaker, St Eval, and THE PIG-at Harlyn Bay, he set the scene for the days ahead: ‘Think big Cornish house party with friends who all have huge amounts in common – in this instance all being part of the inspiring B Corp community.’

The afternoon’s discussions delved into topics such as

  • Localising sustainability: how businesses can thrive by prioritising local sourcing and community engagement
  • Purpose-led product innovation: the evolving role of brands in shaping a sustainable future
  • Diversity and inclusion: the importance of representation and equity in the movement
  • The power of brands in helping drive change: how storytelling and advocacy can inspire global transformation

And then, as the sun dipped below the horizon, drinks were served in the courtyard followed by a supper in the scullery, everyone sitting at one long, rustic table lit with dozens of St Eval candles. With a pre-dinner speech from purposeful potter, Emma Bridgewater, guests enjoyed THE PIG’s classic 25-Mile Menu, a celebration of the finest local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients. THE PIG’s Emma Cripwell said, ‘It felt magical. The meeting of these brilliant people who have made a lifelong commitment to the planet, people and purpose was very special. It really did have such great energy and optimism with all knowing that they were more powerful as this consortium of like-minded game changers.’

Panel talk at B Corps at the Beach

Day two saw Tom Kay, Founder of Finisterre, speaking about resilience, innovation, and sustainability in business. This was followed by a morning surf session, and a sneaky beachside Sapling Bloody Mary to reward the Dutch courage. Further speakers included Chris Hines, co-founder of Surfers Against Sewage, on ocean conservation and activism and Will Pearson, co-founder of Ocean Bottle, on the intersection of sustainability and business leadership.

The ‘house party’ wrapped up with a Belazu and Big Green Egg BBQ lunch, followed by a hands-on candle-making masterclass at St Eval.  

Building on the success of B Corps at the Beach, Good Nights is set to host a plant-based feast, spotlighting the power of superfoods in collaboration with leading plant-based brand THIS. Looking ahead to 2026, an ambitious three-day ski touring expedition is on the horizon, where a select group of purpose-driven brand leaders will brave The Swiss Alps, engaging in mountain hut workshops before concluding their journey in Davos for The World Economic Forum.

To find out more, visit goodcompany.group.