Benefit society

Since January 2016, Italy has introduced benefit societies, which represent an evolution of the classic concept of a company.

While traditional companies primarily pursue profit-making purposes, benefit societies integrate into their corporate purpose purposes of common benefit capable of having a long-term positive impact on civil society and the environment.

Benefit corporations are thus characterized by a dual purpose, but they are not social enterprises or an evolution of nonprofits: they are merely the positive transformation of single-profit business models.

To become a benefit corporation, a company must meet certain evaluation criteria and adopt a specific legal structure. In addition, benefit corporations must demonstrate a positive impact on people and the environment, as well as provide a financial return to their shareholders.