East Lothian campervan firm hailed for ethical approach

A North Berwick-based firm that specialises in Volkswagen camper van conversions has been named one of the UK’s most ethically-minded businesses.

Simon Poole, co-founder of the campervan firm, and team. Picture: contributed.

Jerba Campervans has joined some of the country’s most responsible organisations in being awarded the Good Business Charter (GBC) – a scheme that was set up by Julian Richer, the founder of home entertainment retailer Richer Sounds.

To be awarded the accreditation, staff-owned Jerba had to demonstrate how its ethos applied throughout its business, from living wage and a commitment to work-life balance, to its tax arrangements, supplier relationships and customer care.

The company’s founders are vocal advocates for employee ownership, having placed all of their shares into a trust in 2018 and hailing the widespread positive impact of the move such as a boost to productivity.

Simon Poole, co-founder of the campervan firm, which creates bespoke Volkswagen T6.1 Transporter conversions, said the accreditation “cements that what we are doing is worthwhile”.

Simon Fox, chairman of the GBC board, said the charter brings together ten standards “to give a coherent overall position for businesses to aspire to”.

He added: “We believe that the GBC has enormous potential to change business practice for good. We hope that because of its simplicity and cost effectiveness, it will quickly gain support.”

The GBC is formed of a variety of foundations and trustees within the Confederation of British Industry and the Trades Union Congress. Its aim is to inspire businesses to change their behaviour and encourage a wider good business practice.

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