IWD 2025 - Inspiring Women-Owned Businesses You Should Know
At Virtue Studios, I believe brands should be built with authenticity, purpose, and values that actually mean something, not just a throwaway line in a company handbook. That’s why International Women’s Day 2025 is a big one for me, and has been every year. It’s a chance to celebrate the women-led businesses that are not just talking about change but leading the way with impact, sustainability, and real action.
This year, I’m shining a light on 10 incredible women-owned or co-founded businesses in the UK and Scotland—brands that prove you can do good while doing business. These companies are redefining what it means to be ethical, sustainable, and values-driven, making a real impact on the world.
1. Eteaket (Scotland)
Founded by Erica Moore, Eteaket is revolutionising the tea industry with its ethically sourced, sustainable loose-leaf teas. As a B-Corp business, they champion social impact, sustainability, and the power of tea-drinking as a mindful ritual—because a good cuppa can change the world.
2. Nc'nean Distillery (Scotland)
Founded by Annabel Thomas, Nc’nean is the UK’s first net-zero whisky distillery, proving that sustainability and innovation can thrive in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Their organic, small-batch spirits are crafted with the future of the planet in mind.
3. Thomson & Scott Ltd (England)
Led by Amanda Thomson, this pioneering company is behind Noughty—a premium, alcohol-free, organic, and vegan sparkling wine. Breaking barriers in the wine industry, they’re proof that luxury and sustainability go hand in hand.
4. With Nothing Underneath (WNU) (England)
Founded by Pip Durell, WNU champions slow fashion with its ethically produced, high-quality women’s shirts. Designed to last, their timeless styles challenge the fast fashion industry with a sustainability-first mindset.
5. Johnstons of Elgin (Scotland)
A heritage brand with a modern sustainability mission, Johnstons of Elgin has been crafting luxury cashmere and wool products since 1797. Achieving B-Corp status in 2023, they’re leading the charge in ethical and sustainable textiles.
6. Mercat Tours (Scotland)
An Edinburgh-based walking tour company led by Des Brogan and his family, Mercat Tours became a B-Corp business to reinforce its dedication to ethical tourism, community support, and sustainable business practices. A brilliant example of purpose-driven tourism done right.
7. The Gin Bothy (Scotland)
Founded by Kim Cameron, The Gin Bothy blends Scottish heritage with sustainability. Now expanding into whisky, they’re launching a distillery run entirely by women—paving the way for female leadership in the spirits industry.
8. Troubadour Goods (England)
Co-founded by Samuel Bail and Abel Samet, Troubadour Goods is redefining fashion with stylish, sustainable bags and accessories made from innovative, eco-friendly materials. Proof that you don’t have to sacrifice design for sustainability.
9. giffgaff (England)
A B-Corp certified mobile network that puts community and sustainability at its heart, giffgaff delivers affordable, eco-conscious mobile plans while ensuring ethical business practices. A leader in responsible tech.
10. Good Energy (England)
Founded by Juliet Davenport, Good Energy is driving the renewable energy revolution. As a B-Corp, they’re committed to providing 100% renewable electricity to homes and businesses—helping build a sustainable future for the UK.
International Women’s Day isn’t just a one-day celebration, it’s a reminder of the power of women in business and the impact they have on industries, communities, and the planet. These B-Corp businesses aren’t just talking about purpose, sustainability, and ethical leadership, they’re living it.
At Virtue Studios, we help brands find their authentic voice, tell their story, and live by their values—just like these incredible women-owned businesses do every single day.
So, this International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the brands that are doing good, making waves, and proving that business can be a force for positive change.
Who are your favourite women-owned or B-Corp businesses? Drop them in the comments—we’d love to hear!
