‘First’ African gin brand gains B Corp status
Kenyan producer African Originals has become the continent’s ‘first’ gin and cider company recognised with a B Corp certification.
Described as representing ‘the bold taste of Africa,’ the company produces a range of gins made with Kenyan ingredients.
African Originals’ portfolio includes classic and orange gin, as well as limited edition and craft gins in multiple flavours and botanical-led variations.
Established in 2016, the company also has a line of gin-based ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails, ciders, tonics, and iced teas.
African Originals is the 81st African B Corp company, and the first gin and cider producer on the continent to achieve the certificate.
Alex Chappatte, founder and CEO of African Originals, commented: “We craft more than beverages – we craft change. Blending innovation with tradition, we’re on a mission to create a positive and lasting impact across Africa.
“We’re proud to join the B Corp community at this crucial stage in our growth, as we expand rapidly in our home market of Kenya and enter new African markets.”
African Originals’ impact business model and variety of stakeholder-first commitments helped it meet B Corp’s standards.
The company’s initiatives focus on supporting smallholder farms and aim to increase investment in youth and women-led enterprises through programs such as ‘She Originals’ and workshops for female entrepreneurs.
Additionally, the company has committed to reduce its ecological footprint by reusing 40% of its glass by 2025, eliminating plastic use by 2026, and decreasing reliance on paper by 2027.
Lucy Muigai, CEO at B Lab Africa, said: “African Original’s commitments to support their local communities, empower women and reduce their environmental impact are an example to all, particularly those in the alcohol industry. We’re excited to welcome them into our network.”
African Originals views its commitments as mutually beneficial to the company and the community as it grows. In December 2024, the company reached record sales of 80 million units, aided by increased market share, expansion into new markets, and new product launches.
In September 2024, African Originals raised US$2 million from international investors.
Research conducted by B Lab UK indicated that from 2023 to 2024, small and medium-sized businesses with the certification experienced a revenue increase of 23.2%, in contrast to the national average of 16.8%. Worldwide, there are now nearly 10,000 companies certified as B Corp.
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