LONDON — October 7, 2013 — Sustainability specialist Anthesis has created a new global
sustainability consulting platform with the acquisition of UK blue-chip advisors Best Foot Forward,
announced today.
The agreement combines Best Foot Forward’s Europe-based team with the existing US and Asian
operations of Anthesis to form a worldwide expert group. Anthesis says it has identified unmet
client demand for expert sustainability consulting which combines corporate strategy, analytics,
behavioural change expertise and full programme delivery.
“We have created a holistic strategic and delivery solution for companies and organisations
needing focussed advice, expert implementation and global reach,” said Stuart McLachlan, Chief
Executive Officer of Anthesis, whose previous achievements include growing one of the world’s
leading environmental consulting firms at WSP Group.
“The current market is polarised between large non-specialist consultancies and small
boutique sustainability firms typically operating single jurisdictions.
“With the acquisition of Best Foot Forward, Anthesis can now advise clients at board level
with a focus on securing valuable business outcomes both locally and globally.
“These outcomes will range from helping clients to drive the top line and enhance brand
value, to reduce costs and become more resilient through supply chain management, and to
demonstrate responsibility in their business practices. The value of adopting sustainable business
practices is a unique and compelling proposition for our clients”.
Best Foot Forward is one of Europe’s most highly regarded sustainability firms with offices
in London and Oxford. It recently helped London 2012 become one of the greenest games ever
and is a recognised leader in sustainability metrics, environmental footprinting and related
software solutions.
Clients include the UN Environment Programme, The World Business Council for Sustainable
Development and the Global Footprint Network.
The company’s forty-strong team also helps “future-proof” market leading corporate clients
such as Tesco, M&S and Coca Cola on a broad range of sustainability challenges including brand,
consumer behaviour and global supply chain management.
It is also renowned for its pioneering environmental work on large-scale sporting events and
is advising on the forthcoming Brazil World Cup and the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics.
Award winning ZEDbook author, Craig Simmons, co-founder of Best Foot Forward commented: “We
have an outstanding business with first-rate clients and a team of experts that is second-to-none.
Anthesis is unique in its ability to extend Best Foot Forward’s global reach with an enhanced core
business offering.
“Anthesis’ team comprises leading research authorities in the field of sustainability; social
and consumer behaviour experts; water, carbon and waste analysts, supply chain management advisers;
and organic and inorganic chemists.”
His co-founder Nicky Chambers, an expert in sustainability leadership, corporate strategy and
business innovation will join the Anthesis global management team.
She commented: “Together with Anthesis, we can provide best-in-class business sustainability
strategies and solutions, delivering practical, commercially and sustainable outcomes for our
clients.”
Completing the new Anthesis board, Malcolm Paul has agreed to serve as Chairman, one of the
two founders of global built and natural environment adviser, WSP Group.
Posted October 7, 2013
Source: Anthesis
