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Business as a Force for Good: Exploring B Corp Business Cases in the US Fashion Industry Through Quadruple Bottom Line Theory and Mixed Method Approach

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  • Iva Jestratijevic
  • Roghayeh Taraz
  • Jacob Couzen

Abstract

This study employed an explanatory sequential mixed methods design and employed the quadruple bottom line sustainability framework to unveil the fashion B Corp business purpose and corresponding social, environmental, and economic practices. The quantitative phase involved the systematic review of B Impact scores for 91 certified fashion B Corps in the US. The qualitative phase involved semi‐structured interviews with three B Corp founders. The findings highlight fashion B Corps as extreme industry outliers, with less than 4% of certified businesses. Yet, these special pro‐social enterprises are undertaking unorthodox business initiatives to prove that it is possible to “walk the sustainability walk” while remaining profitable. Exploring B Corps as an emerging entrepreneurial phenomenon is critical for maximizing social impact while reshaping the fashion sector into a force for good. Similarly, as a community of changemakers, B Corp businesses can serve as examples of Sustainable Development for disparate industries.

Suggested Citation

  • Iva Jestratijevic & Roghayeh Taraz & Jacob Couzen, 2026. "Business as a Force for Good: Exploring B Corp Business Cases in the US Fashion Industry Through Quadruple Bottom Line Theory and Mixed Method Approach," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 34(3), pages 3827-3844, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:sustdv:v:34:y:2026:i:3:p:3827-3844
    DOI: 10.1002/sd.70555
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