What is the GBC? And why does it matter?

Founded by Julian Richer and developed with the CBI, TUC and FSB, the Good Business Charter (GBC) is the UK’s benchmark for responsible business behaviour.

The Good Business Charter accredits organisations that meet the mark.

This means that accredited organisations…

Pay all employed staff the Real Living Wage, and if they regularly work with contractors, aim to pay them the same.

Use zero-hours contracts fairly. Give people advance notice of shifts and pay for late cancelled shifts.

Support employee wellbeing with clear, fair policies and don’t punish people unfairly for being off sick.

Ensure employees have a voice in the business, either through worker representatives or other initiatives.

Track and review data on equality, diversity and inclusion and take action to ensure all employees are included and valued.

Have an environmental policy that shows they are committed to reducing their environmental impact.

Are open and honest about how much tax they pay and don’t take part in artificial tax avoidance schemes.

Clearly state their commitment to customers and collect and act upon customer feedback.

Ensure suppliers treat their workers fairly by following ethical standards and regularly checking their practices.

Pay at least 95% of their suppliers on time – and aim to pay all small suppliers within 30 days.

Your support makes a difference…

Food delivery rider with a green backpack and motorcycle on a wet, overcast day.

Shockingly few meet the mark.

Over the past five years, it has become increasingly clear that, particularly among larger organisations, shockingly few businesses meet all ten components of the Charter.

A business might be doing brilliant work to reduce its environmental impact, while not paying its employees the Real Living Wage or avoiding paying its fair share of tax.

Does your business qualify?

Recognising those that do.

The Good Business Charter looks at the whole picture – how businesses treat their people, pay their suppliers, operate responsibly, reduce their environmental impact and contribute to a fairer society.

We only accredit organisations that demonstrate their commitment across ALL ten components!

Tell us about a good business

Give good business your business.

So when you see the Good Business Charter accreditation logo, you know that organisation does the right thing!

And your support makes a difference.

By choosing to support GBC-accredited organisations, you’re rewarding good business behaviour and helping to drive positive change.

Support good businesses

If you have any concerns about a Good Business Charter accredited organisation, you can share them here.