THE ENTERPRISE AND THE COMMON GOOD: CASE STUDY OF ABOCA SPA BENEFIT CORPORATION

The Thesis analyses the concept of sustainability and the debate concerning the role of business in society. Specifically, the thesis investigates how business can contribute to sustainable development and how this aspect may be strategic for a company. With regard to the agri-food sector, the thesis proposes a systematization of the theoretical framework concerning the multi-functionality of agriculture and its connection with the responsibility of business. The work analyses different kinds of assessment and reporting methods and the possible compliance with the Sustainable Development Goals established by United Nations. Due to the increasing attention given to the B Corp movement, the thesis also aims to evaluate if Benefit Corporations and B Corp certified companies might provide an answer to the role that people are asking businesses to play. The analysis has been conducted in relation to a specific case study: Aboca SpA, an agricultural Italian firm operating in the health sector. The company has been working in the production of dietary supplements and medical devices made of natural substances for over 40 years. Aboca controls its own production chain from organic cultivations to finished product. Aboca became a Benefit Corporation in 2018 and gained the B Corp certification in 2019. The company is analysed considering its governance and the attitude in producing common benefit (e.g. biodiversity, cultural activities, training in health, etc.). The empirical strategy consists of company's description and analysis, interviews and SWOT analysis. The case study helps to explain both strengths and weaknesses of the Benefit Impact Assessment reporting tool and B Corp certification process, as well as its effect on the company.