Business Purpose Commission report: Scottish Government response

Introduction

The Scottish Government believes that business contributes to the development and prosperity of our society and plays a pivotal role in achieving key policy goals around climate change, environmental sustainability, inequality and fair work. We were keen to build on global momentum on purposeful business and partnered with SCDI to establish the Business Purpose Commission for Scotland (the Commission).

Between Autumn 2021 and Summer 2022, the Commission examined how Scotland might nurture purposeful businesses which make positive impacts on economic prosperity, social wellbeing and environmental sustainability. The business-led Commission engaged widely with stakeholders and shared their findings and recommendations in their landmark report, "NOW IS THE TIME FOR PURPOSE: Putting Purpose at the Heart of Scottish Business", (the Report) published on 28 June 2022.

The Report shares primary evidence and brings new data commissioned via a public opinion poll and the Fraser of Allander Institute to understand the views of people and businesses in Scotland, in relation to the role and reputation of business in society. This research is a strength of the Report, enabling recommendations which respond directly to the purposeful business and policy environment in Scotland, as well as the wider UK context within which companies in Scotland operate.

The Business Purpose Commission for Scotland has succeeded in breaking new ground by helping to define and illuminate specific challenges and opportunities for business purpose in Scotland. In preparing this response, careful consideration has been given to the report recommendations and action areas for Scottish Government.