TORONTO — Intrepid Travel has secured a top-tier B Corp score of 102.5, a significant leap from its 2021 score of 91.2.
With only 20% of B Corps with over 1,000 employees scoring above 100, this achievement positions the company among an elite group of purpose-driven businesses, including Patagonia and Ben & Jerry’s.
“This isn’t just a badge – it’s proof that purpose and profit go hand in hand. When businesses lead with values, record-breaking impact and success follow,” said Leigh Barnes, Intrepid’s new President of the Americas.
Adding to this milestone, Wildland Trekking, Intrepid’s backcountry provider, has also achieved its first B Corp certification, becoming the first outfitter in the industry to meet these rigorous standards.
Sustainability and Profitability
Intrepid Travel has demonstrated that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand. The company shattered sales records in 2024, driven by strong operational strategies, innovative sustainability initiatives, and growing consumer demand for responsible tourism. November alone saw an extraordinary US$51 million in bookings.
Beyond financial success, Intrepid’s not-for-profit arm, The Intrepid Foundation, raised over $2 million in 2024 to support local partners across 36 countries.
When Intrepid first achieved B Corp certification in 2018, only 19 tourism companies held the designation. Today, nearly 200 travel businesses have joined the movement, highlighting a broader industry shift towards responsible business practices.
“While others pull back on DEI and ESG, we’re doubling down,” said Meegan Marshall, Intrepid’s Chief People & Purpose Officer. “In the face of geopolitical instability, the climate crisis, and growing inequality, it’s not the time to retreat—it’s the time for bold action to build a regenerative, equitable economy for everyone.”
Raising the Bar in the Travel Industry
B Corp certification is one of the most respected designations for purpose-led businesses, recognizing companies that uphold high social and environmental standards, transparency and accountability. Businesses must score at least 80 points to qualify, with the average business scoring just under 60.
B Corps are required to recertify every three years, demonstrating improvements across governance, workers, community, customers, and the environment. Since its last recertification in 2021, Intrepid has made several impactful advancements:
- Diversifying Its Supply Chain: Increased the representation of women and underrepresented groups among suppliers from 17% to 27% through targeted initiatives and engagement programs.
- Advancing Global Employment Equity: Created 33% more employment opportunities while ensuring fair wages aligned with the WageIndicator benchmark.
- Enhancing Customer Education: Introduced carbon labelling for over 500 trips, expanded its range of active trips to support travellers’ physical and mental well-being, and enriched traveller experiences with deeper insights into local cultures and environments.
- Doubling Community Investment: Boosted contributions to non-profits through volunteering, partnerships, and The Intrepid Foundation, increasing investment from AU$728,444 in 2020 to AU$1.4 million in 2023.
For more information go to https://www.intrepidtravel.com/ca.