Lakes Showering Spaces has entered the global record books as the first bathroom manufacturer in the world to achieve B Corporation certification.
The accreditation recognises the company’s commitment to verified sustainability, social responsibility, customer care and employee wellbeing — a milestone that Lakes’ leadership describes as years in the making.
Managing Director Mike Gahir said the team was “thrilled to have achieved B Corp certification at Lakes,” adding that reaching this point required “a sustained effort from everyone at the company as we work together to ensure that Lakes is hitting the highest standards across the board.”
He added: “This achievement is a reflection of who we are and how we do business, with honesty, transparency and accountability for our people, our community and the environment.”
Gahir also acknowledged the significance of becoming the first bathroom-sector manufacturer globally to be certified. “The fact we are the first bathroom manufacturer in the world to achieve this is even more rewarding and an example of the forward-thinking, innovative team we have here,” he said. “Achieving B Corp status is not an end for us, it’s the start of a continued journey of excellence.”
The rigorous B Corp assessment measures environmental and social impact across five categories — Governance, Workers, Community, Environment and Customers.
The review covered both Lakes’ headquarters in Tewkesbury and its wholly owned manufacturing site in Ningbo, China, which has now become one of the first 100 companies in China to secure B Corp status.
Lakes’ recent sustainability milestones strengthened the case for certification. The company introduced 100% recyclable packaging — a first in its sector — and achieved a 24% reduction in carbon emissions between 2019 and 2023. Operations in the UK now run on 100% renewable energy, while the removal of 2000 km of plastic banding and almost two million pieces of polystyrene annually has significantly reduced landfill impact.
Lakes also highlighted its investment in route-optimisation and digital systems to improve delivery efficiency and enhance customer service.
The certification further recognises Lakes’ investment in people. The business supports skill development and apprenticeships, many of which lead to permanent roles. A long-standing focus on merchant relationships is reflected in in-person trade events, while community support includes sponsorship of local charities and sports teams.
Gahir credited the team with helping achieve the milestone and pointed to consistently high customer feedback. “We pride ourselves on our exemplary customer service – evidenced by our consistent 5* Trustpilot reviews – but we also foster a culture of fairness and integrity, so that our staff and the wider Lakes community always feel supported.
“I’m so proud that all of our hard work has been recognised and I want to thank everyone at Lakes for their efforts in making this happen.”
The certification marks a defining moment for the business — and for the industry it represents — as sustainability, accountability and long-term impact become increasingly central to manufacturing worldwide.
