On Friday, December 13, 2019, Perlage’s shareholders’ meeting unanimously approved the new articles of incorporation, which formalize the conversion of Perlage Srl into a “Benefit Corporation,” a type of company recognized under Italian law that regulates its charitable activities.
This significant new step by Perlage further reinforces the company’s commitment to social responsibility—not only toward its customers, but also toward the market as a whole, the local community, and its employees.
Following a training period during which the members were able to fully understand what this type of initiative entailed, the company implemented a step that had already been planned following its decision to become a B Corp in 2016.
We would like to clarify that: while B Corp status is a voluntary certification, being a “Benefit Corporation” entails a series of obligations to be taken into account, including ongoing audits by the relevant authorities, who will monitor Perlage’s operations to ensure that its Corporate Social Responsibility commitments are met, as has always been the case.
Our director, Ivo Nardi, explains: “Now, in addition to distributing profits, Perlage’s bylaws aim to pursue one or more objectives that benefit the common good and to operate in a responsible, sustainable, and transparent manner toward people, communities, and the environment. These objectives must be pursued regardless of who serves as the pro tempore director.”
For Perlage, this also means continuously assessing the environmental and social value generated through its organic viticulture activities.
The areas of interest specified in the new bylaws are as follows: preserving the environment and facilitating its regeneration through organic and biodynamic agriculture; collaborating with for-profit and nonprofit organizations to promote best practices; promoting healthy lifestyles among citizens; integrating renewable energy sources, sustainable practices, the circular economy, and energy conservation. Additionally, the charter emphasizes the ongoing assessment of environmental impact; enhancing the well-being of employees and local communities; and developing educational and cultural events aimed at encouraging fair and sustainable behaviors.
In the final days of 2019, Perlage therefore decided to formalize and make official—through a natural progression—this commitment, which has been an integral part of the company’s ethos for quite some time.
