Family owned natural soap brand Dr Bronner’s is the subject of an episode in a new documentary series Fix the World and Make Money, titled ‘Soap for World Peace’, which launched today on the filmmakers’ website.
Produced by documentary filmmakers Linda Vermaat, and Erik Loots, ‘Soap for World Peace’ explores in 24 minutes the constructive capitalism model that guides the company’s progressive business practices, and highlights Dr. Bronner’s efforts to fulfill its ‘All-One’ mission both inside and outside the company.
A unique documentary project, the filmmakers followed Dr. Bronner’s leadership for 24 hours, resulting in an intimate look inside their home and work life, to uncover what drives them to use Dr. Bronner’s as an engine for positive change. ‘Soap for World Peace’ features interviews with Dr. Bronner’s CEO (cosmic engagement officer) David Bronner, Dr. Bronner’s president Mike Bronner, their mother Trudy Bronner the company’s chief financial officer, and Dr. Bronner’s employees. The Dr. Bronner’s team discusses the history of the company and roots of their All-One mission; and explains advocacy issues the company supports including the need to establish a living wage, protections for animals, and advance fair trade and organic supply chains.
“Innovation and positive change are happening all over the world, and this series is an inspiration for entrepreneurs and change-makers to use business as a force for good”
“Our business is proof-positive that a company can be successful and achieve profits, while still providing fair pay and benefits to our employees, and investing in efforts to make the world a better place,” said Mike Bronner. “We’re grateful to TwentieFour productions for the opportunity to share our story, and encourage all to watch not only ‘Soap for World Peace,’ but the entire series. Innovation and positive change are happening all over the world, and this series is an inspiration for entrepreneurs and change-makers to use business as a force for good.”
The documentary episode further explores Dr. Bronner’s progressive business practices, including for example, the issue of fair pay and benefits. The company has a 5 to 1 cap on executive salaries, offers yearly bonus of up to 25% of salary for full time employees, provides 100% free health care for employees and their families, and 15% of employee salary in profit sharing programmes.