By Melissa Hoyer
The Sussan Group, a leading women’s fashion retailer, has announced its certification as a B Corporation (B Corp), joining a global movement of businesses committed to balancing purpose and profit. Comprised of three well-loved and trusted Australian brands: Sportsgirl, Sussan, and Suzanne Grae, as a company that is led by women, and owned by women, The Sussan Group, understands the transformative power of fashion in women’s lives.
Since 1939, The Sussan Group has stayed true to its values of fashion excellence and community care; evolving into a leader in sustainability, ethical business practices and championing women in leadership.
By achieving B Corp Certification, The Sussan Group is proud to join a community of over 9,000 global brands that meet high standards of environmental sustainability, social impact, ethical practices, and governance.
B Corps are required to recertify every three years and this commitment signifies Sussan Group’s dedication to continual improvement and a positive impact for people and the planet.
“We’re thrilled to achieve B Corp Certification. This recognition aligns with our commitment to enacting the change that our customers want to see. We’re also here to continue leading the change we as a business want to see from the Australian fashion industry.
“This certification independently verifies that The Sussan Group meets high standards of performance, accountability, and transparency – not just in environmental factors but in social and governance too, this is something we are very proud of and committed to building upon,” said Rebecca Hard, Group Retail CEO of The Sussan Group
“We know women are disproportionately affected by social and climate issues globally, yet they hold immense potential to drive change. As a best-in-class employer, with a workforce of 99% women and a female led senior leadership team, The Sussan Group is constantly improving working conditions and nurturing women leaders across all aspects of their business. The Sussan Group is dedicated to empowering women to lead this positive transformation, believing firmly that when women rise, we all rise.”
Despite the industry’s sustainability challenges, The Sussan Group is committed to not just acknowledging this problem, but providing solutions for its customers. Through initiatives such as the Seamless initiative, a Reconciliation Action Plan, and its membership to Better Cotton, where The Sussan Group has committed to sourcing 50% of its cotton by 2025. Highlighting commitment to sustainability in every step, ensuring impact is meaningful and lasting.
Andrew Davies, CEO, B Lab Australia & Aotearoa New Zealand said he is delighted to welcome The Sussan Group to the growing community of 750 B Corps in the region and over 9,000 worldwide.
“In an industry know for its complex supply chains and significant environmental footprint, their certification demonstrates a willingness to be accountable and a genuine commitment to improving proactive in the fashion industry. By meeting our rigorous and holistic standards, The Sussan Group is setting an example for how business can contribute to our shared vision for a more inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy.”
The B Corp Certification, administered by B Lab, is awarded to companies that meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. This certification independently verifies that The Sussan Group meets these high standards, and marks a significant milestone in its commitment to sustainable and ethical business practices.
For customers, B Corp Certification means they can shop The Sussan Group brands knowing that it’s committed to providing a better option that makes women feel great – both in their bodies and their purchasing habits. For the team, it signifies being part of a vibrant, purpose-driven workplace that values innovation and impact. And for its partners, it represents a commitment to ethical collaborations and continuous improvement.
