Forest Holidays attains B Corp Certification
Forest News
15/06/23
Forest Holidays has gained recognition as a force for good for its long term commitment to conservation – and is the only business of its kind to be awarded a Land and Wildlife Conservation Impact Business Model.
Proving that tourism and nature can be a force for good - and that business and nature can collaborate to achieve great things for people and planet - Forest Holidays, has been recognised by B Lab, (the awarding body for B Corp Certification), for the significant and long-term contribution it makes to the UK’s forests and wildlife.
With an overall B Corp score of 100.6 – Forest Holidays also achieved the highest score for its Land & Wildlife Conservation Impact Business Model. As the only UK travel company to gain this, it proves how conservation is entirely integrated into the way it operates. Only a handful of businesses of any type have been recognised for having this type of business model, making Forest Holidays achievement a potential global first within the tourism industry.
Forest Holidays not only maintain, but actively manage and restore the environment around them. Its pioneering business model carefully balances planet, purpose and profit and displays a deep-rooted connection to nature and conservation.
The achievement is a significant step on a road that has so far been decades in the making. Founded by the Forestry Commission in 1973 - this year marks 50 years since the very first cabins opened in Strathyre, on the edge of the Scottish Highlands. Today the business is the trusted partner of Forestry England, Forestry & Land Scotland and Natural Resources Wales.
Offering tucked-away nature sensitive cabins across the UK's forests in 12 locations, Forest Holidays has a long history of offering holidays with a difference. Like thousands of others before them, guests can enjoy a unique stay in some of Britain’s most breathtaking forests, discovering the wonders of nature, and in turn, playing a critical part in protecting and preserving the UK’s forests and wildlife.
Conservation will always remain at the heart of Forest Holidays’ approach. As stewards of close to 245 hectares of the UK’s forests, its 800 strong team manages and maintains its forest locations for the benefit of nature and people.
To mark achieving B Corp certification and being awarded the highest score in the Land & Wildlife Conservation Impact Business Model assessment, Forest Holidays has worked with leading sustainability film-maker Rachel McClelland, founder of Planet Shine, to create a short documentary about its groundbreaking business model and approach.
When taking a Forest Holiday, you have the entire forest at your feet, with nothing but epic woodlands and stunning hidden gems to discover. Forest Holidays has resident Forest Rangers, the ambassador of the woodlands, at each of its locations* who are bursting with passion and pride for their local forests and have a wealth of knowledge to share. Enjoy numerous activities, including guided walks, survival skills, nocturnal adventures, archery, bushcraft, and forest bathing. Cycle through the forest trails and soak in the fresh air, hire a kayak or canoe and take in the breathtaking scenery. For kids, imaginations thrive when spending time in the most fascinating place in the natural world, with endless opportunities for adventure and entertainment.
Bruce McKendrick, CEO of Forest Holidays said:
“We’re delighted that B Corp has recognised the unbreakable link between our business and conservation. Each of our 12 locations with thoughtfully placed cabins have long term biodiversity enhancement strategies meaning our work is not only centred around nature, but it is also deeply woven into the fabric of the local communities we support.
Becoming a B Corp isn’t permission to simply sit back and admire the view. We will be unwavering in our focus and our commitment, legally and morally, to be the change we want to see.”
