Business Without Blood Sports launch for ethical companies
Posted 20th April 2023
A new initiative for ethical companies was launched at the Houses of Parliament today by leading animal welfare charity the League Against Cruel Sports.
The Business Without Blood Sports pledge invites companies to commit to never promoting any activity that has links with fox hunting, game bird shooting and animal fighting.
More than 125 companies have already signed the pledge, including Forest Green Rovers Football Club and the green energy firm Ecotricity.
Chris Luffingham, the League’s deputy CEO said: “We’re creating a new community of like-minded businesses that oppose animals being persecuted in brutal blood sports, and which support our moves to end these barbaric activities once and for all.
“Animal welfare and environmental concerns are a key concern for consumers and the way in which businesses operate increasingly reflects this.”
The event was hosted by Baroness Natalie Bennett and speakers included Jill Poet, founder and CEO of the Organisation for Responsible Businesses.
Market research in 2021 showed 74 per cent of the public always considered a brand’s values before purchasing (Feefo) and in 2018 research was published showing 84 per cent of consumers want a brand to help them be more ethical in their daily lives (Futerra).
Polling carried out by Find Out Now and Electoral Calculus and in June 2022, which was commissioned by the League, showed 78 per cent of the public agreed that the law should be changed to prevent animals being chased with dogs and killed. *1
The polling highlighted that this was not just an urban phenomenon with 76 per cent of the rural public opposing hunting with dogs.
Chris added: “We believe that companies declaring their businesses free of blood sports will be viewed positively by discerning consumers and help them thrive by building a shared purpose that reflects their mutual values and beliefs.
“It’s time for change and for businesses to get behind our drive to strengthen hunting laws in this country – and showing their compassion makes good business sense.”
Companies can sign up to the Business Without Blood Sports pledge.
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Notes to editors
For more information or interview requests please contact the League Against Cruel Sports Press Office on 07496 496454 (24hrs) or email pressoffice@league.org.uk
*1 Polling was conducted online by Find Out Now between June 11 and June 14 2022, and the total sample size was 5,187 adults. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+). MRP Analysis was conducted by Electoral Calculus. Both Find Out Now and Electoral Calculus are members of the British Polling Council.
