Rob Mayhew criticises B Lab over lack of Havas action

Social media creator Rob Mayhew, who is known for his comedic sketches about agency life, earlier this week posted a video with the caption: “Waiting for B Lab to complete their formal investigation into Havas’ B Corp status.”

In the clip, Mayhew, who is head of new business at creative agency Movers+Shakers, is heard saying: “Apparently it takes a while to review how evil Shell really are.”

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by R O B M A Y H E W (@robmayhewcomedy)

The post refers to an investigation launched by B Lab in January this year, within which the non-profit said it would review Havas’ B Corp status. This came after Havas Media Network won Shell's global planning and buying account in late 2023.

B Lab responded directly to Mayhew’s post on LinkedIn, writing: “We understand that updates on this investigation are important to you.

“This case concerns actions by four Havas entities who are Certified B Corps, as well as those of separate Havas entities involved in the media purchasing for Shell, which are not certified. As such, this is particularly complex.”

The non-profit said it was working to determine “to what extent the actions of non-certified entities can be reviewed within the context of a certified entity”.

It stated: “Our intention is to be fair and impartial, protecting consumers and the integrity of the B Corp Certification.

“Integrity and thoroughness are at the core of this process, and this requires time. We ask for your patience and understanding as we navigate this process diligently.”

This isn’t the first time Mayhew has commented on the situation, having previously called out Havas chief executive Yannick Bolloré for defending the company’s decision to work with Shell.

Rob Mayhew, social media creator

In October 2023, Bolloré told Campaign, that Havas was happy to pitch for and win Shell’s global media account, despite controversy about working with fossil-fuel clients, because “we believe the most effective change comes from within”.

This triggered some campaigning groups to push for a review of Havas’ B Corp certification, which is linked to environmental, social and governance standards.