FOLDE Dorset, the specialist nature bookshop in Shaftesbury, has been certified as a B Corporation (B Corp), continuing its founders’ commitment towards operating as a force for good, while becoming a go-to destination for nature writing, and locally sourced art and craft.

The attractive shop at the top of Gold Hill joins a network of more than 8,400 B Corps in 97 countries and 162 industries around the world.

The certification comes less than a month after the shop was awarded Independent Bookshop of the Year for South West England in the British Book Awards. The B Corp verification process administered by the nonprofit, B Lab, measures a company’s social and environmental performance. To become a Certified B Corporation, companies undergo a rigorous review of the impact of their operations and business model on their workers, customers, communities and environment, and must meet a minimum verified score on the B Impact Assessment.

“Our journey at FOLDE Dorset has always been guided by a commitment to purpose,” said co-founder Amber Harrison, “Even as we planned our business, we thought about more than just profit; we envisioned making a meaningful impact on the world around us.”

FOLDE Dorset is committed to ensuring its business practices align with its stated values, which include acting as champions for nature; operating as sustainably as possible in all areas of its activity; providing a kind, safe and inclusive space as a forum for conversation, discussion and learning; and joyfully celebrating people, place and community.