GF Smith was certified with a ‘B Impact Score’ of 98, significantly higher than the certification benchmark of 80, and well clear of ordinary business’ median score of 51. 

The highest possible score is 200, though very few companies have ever surpassed the ‘outstanding’ 160 point mark.

Gareth Sheekey, GF Smith managing director, said: “We believe we are the first global fine paper supplier to join the B-Corp movement, and are also very proud to be the largest employer in our home city of Hull to achieve this recognition to date."

He added that the company was looking forward to working with other like-minded businesses across the B-Corp community, to deliver positive change.

“We are working hard with new initiatives as we continue to look forward, delivering on our strategic commitments."

The B-Corp status, however, will be less of a badge of honour as a declaration of intent for the 138-year-old company, Sheekey said.

Part of the requirement for continuing B-Corp status is continuous improvement in terms of helping the community and mitigating environmental impact.

“We recognise that there is always work to do, that we can strive to do better, and we are energised and excited by the challenge ahead,” Sheekey said.