Parmi is proud to announce its B Corp certification — an international recognition awarded to companies that create a positive impact on society, the environment, their communities, and their customers.
Why is this such a pivotal step in the brand’s evolution and long-term commitment to sustainability? We sat down with the team to find out.
1 — First, what does B Corp certification mean?
B Corp certification is an important international distinction, as it recognizes companies that combine performance, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship while meeting the highest standards of ethics and transparency. It is awarded by B Lab, a nonprofit organization that rigorously evaluates companies using strict criteria.
For the entire team, being B Corp certified means that Parmi is committed to creating real, positive impacts on both society and the planet — and that this commitment is tangible, measurable, and proven. This milestone marks a key step in the brand’s evolution, and maintaining it in the years ahead will remain a top priority.
2 — Why was it important for Parmi to be B Corp certified?
“Our values are at the heart of our business model,” says Michèle Bastien, who oversees all operations at Parmi. “Receiving this distinction only two years after entering the market is a significant milestone in the company’s development and demonstrates our deep commitment to sustainable growth.“
This certification strengthens the brand’s credibility with customers, partners, and investors by proving Parmi’s dedication to conducting business in a way that is both ethical and transparent.
“We wanted to quickly formalize our mission to simplify and inspire responsible consumption. We wanted to show that our commitment is not just expressed in words, but through concrete actions that have a real impact,” adds Véronik Bastien, who leads Parmi’s commercial vision and brand strategy.
3 — There are many major environmental and social certifications for brands. Why choose this one over another?
Parmi chose B Corp certification because it is globally recognized for its comprehensive evaluation of a company’s social and environmental impact. Unlike other certifications that may focus on a single area (for example, the sourcing of raw materials or the conditions of garment production), B Corp offers a 360-degree approach that assesses every aspect that has an impact: governance, environmental footprint, employee well-being, customer satisfaction, organizational transparency, and product durability, among others.
“This holistic approach aligns perfectly with our aspirations. Our vision for Parmi is to make it a model company — one whose practices make both the team and our customers proud. Building an engaged community united by shared values is one of our core objectives,” explains Véronik Bastien.
4 — What does the process of obtaining the certification involve? What are the key requirements and steps?
For Parmi, the process of obtaining the B Corp seal took a year and a half. It began with the B Impact Assessment, an in-depth evaluation of the company’s impact on all its stakeholders.
Throughout this process, each supplier that Parmi works with — from raw material sourcing to garment manufacturing and marketing support — was carefully examined. Internal and external practices were scrutinized, and concrete evidence of Parmi’s responsible commitments was thoroughly reviewed.
“We also shared the tools we’ve developed to ensure that every decision we make is rooted in respect for the environment and the community, and that we remain aligned with customer satisfaction,” adds Michèle Bastien. “From using recycled cardboard for our shipping boxes to our HR practices and customer service performance measures, our commitment is reflected in every detail.”
After this evaluation stage, a B Lab analyst validated the results through a rigorous, highly detailed audit that spanned about a year. The requirements notably include operational transparency, clear and structured human resources processes, and a minimum performance score in the overall assessment of the organization’s practices.
“The process is complex, much like what the B Corp certification represents, but obtaining this seal of quality is a true achievement for the team,” share Michèle and Véronik Bastien.
What makes the team especially proud, adds Virginie Brunet, Parmi’s Head Designer, is the ability to count on partners who meet exceptionally high standards — particularly when it comes to producing our essentials.
“For instance, our partner factories provide safe, fair working conditions, run entirely on green energy, and are genuinely committed to minimizing their environmental impact. It’s partners like these that help us move forward in the right direction — in full alignment with our values,” she concludes.
5 — What are the requirements to maintain the certification over time?
To maintain its B Corp certification, Parmi must undergo a re-evaluation every three years. This reassessment ensures that the company continues to meet the criteria for social and environmental responsibility.
“We are committed to closely tracking our performance and constantly seeking ways to stay aligned with our vision. The challenges of a growing company evolve quickly, which is why it’s so important to keep our focus on our values — whether it’s in choosing partners, hiring new team members, or managing our customer satisfaction practices,” explains Michèle Bastien, for whom continuous improvement is a daily priority.
For the entire team, obtaining B Corp certification marks a pivotal milestone in Parmi’s evolution. Maintaining it in the years ahead will remain a top priority.
5 GUIDING PRINCIPLE OF OUR SUSTAINABLE COMMITMENT
- Simplifying the outdoor experience
We create versatile, durable essentials that adapt to everyday life for outdoor enthusiasts, no matter the terrain. This approach breaks the cycle of overconsumption through a simplified wardrobe. - Made for life — all of it
Our design choices aim to counter fast fashion. To maximize the lifespan of each piece, we focus on timeless silhouettes and premium fabrics. Every garment is made to last — from its first owner to its fourth. - Partners who share our path
From sourcing raw materials to crafting our pieces, we work with partners who offer safe, fair working conditions, run on 100% green energy, and respect the environment. - Do more with less
Our commitment to the planet is built on two pillars: minimizing waste and optimizing resources across every aspect of our operations. - A brand experience without compromise
The satisfaction of everyone in our community is central to everything we do. Whether you wear our clothing or are part of the Parmi team — as an employee or ambassador — we foster a positive spirit rooted in inclusion, openness, and transparency.
