Mission-driven companies, the engine of a new capitalism

Introduced in 2019 by the PACTE law, the status of “company with a mission” allows a company to assert a raison d’être that goes beyond its traditional financial objectives of growth and profits. Social, environmental or well-being at work issues can now be included in the company’s articles of association, which then sets up an independent body to certify that its commitment is followed through. Three years after the law was passed, what has become of the “mission companies”? Have many of them taken the plunge? Have they really changed their behaviour and, in so doing, their relations with their employees, investors and clients? Clearly, the adoption of new missions can help improve the internal and external image of a company, but is it likely to do more? More generally, will tomorrow’s capitalism be more just and inclusive thanks to business?