Ethical Business Sale Experts Achieve Industry First
CapEQ, a specialist M&A advisory firm, has made history by becoming Europe’s only accredited B-Corporation corporate finance firm.
The London and Thames Valley-based boutique advisor secured the prestigious ethical business ‘kitemark’ this week, joining a select group of 440 accredited UK companies, including household names like Coutts Bank, Jojo Maman Bébé, and The Body Shop.
B-Corporations are businesses that meet the highest standards of social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability. The certification signifies a commitment to balancing profit with purpose, contributing to a global movement toward a more sustainable and inclusive economy.
M&A Specialists Committed to Ethical Standards
CapEQ’s co-founding director, James Pugh, emphasised the firm’s motivation for pursuing B-Corp certification:
“We became a B-Corp not only to reassure business owners that we always work in their interests and to the highest ethical standards but also to set an example for our industry, particularly regarding transparency and accountability.
“B-Corps are a new kind of business that balance purpose with profit. To achieve certification, we had to evaluate our operations from multiple perspectives, including staff, governance, clients, local communities, and environmental impact.”
Fellow co-founder Mark Sapsford added:
“The certification process is rigorous and took us 18 months to complete. We are thrilled to achieve this milestone and are now focused on building partnerships with like-minded firms and expanding our team with professionals who share our vision and values.”
Corporate Finance Advisors Leading with Innovation
As part of the assessment process, B-Corp evaluators examined several of CapEQ’s initiatives, including:
- A ‘digital-first’ M&A process designed to accelerate transactions and minimise paperwork.
- An employee profit-share scheme that rewards staff contributions.
- The planting of 700 trees in Mozambique and Madagascar to combat deforestation, benefiting both the environment and local communities.
CapEQ was established in 2020 by M&A veterans James Pugh and Mark Sapsford. The firm advises both PLCs and private business owners on acquisitions, divestments, capital-raising, business sales, and business growth strategies. It also leads an international network, bringing the same ethical approach to markets across Europe, Africa, and Australia.
A Movement for Ethical Business Practices
Chris Turner, Executive Director of B Lab UK, welcomed CapEQ to the B Corp community, stating:
“We are delighted to welcome CapEQ to the B Corp community. This movement consists of companies committed to changing how business operates, demonstrating that profit and purpose can go hand in hand. We believe CapEQ will be a valuable addition to the community and a driving force for change.”
He continued: “Having B Corps of all sizes and industries is essential, from start-ups to multinational corporations. Business is a powerful force, and firms like CapEQ show that you can do good in any sector. Their commitment to ethical business practices will inspire others and help redefine success to prioritise people and the planet alongside profit.”
CapEQ’s milestone accreditation sets a new benchmark for ethical corporate finance, proving that even in high-stakes M&A transactions, businesses can lead with integrity and sustainability.
