Social impact
Social impact has always been part of our DNA. In 1935 our founder, Allen Lane, established Penguin to make good quality books affordable and accessible to everyone. In doing so, he created a paperback revolution that democratised literature and transformed publishing.
We remain true to Allen Lane’s original vision today through our mission: we make books for everyone, because a book can change anyone.
Our social impact strategy
1. We give everyone equal access to books
We make books for everyone, but the reality is that not everyone has the means or opportunity to read. We’re working with charities, schools and prisons to put books into the hands of people and communities who may not otherwise be able to afford or access them.
2. We create the readers of the future
We know that books can change minds and transform futures. By connecting young people to the power of our books and authors, we help them to see the world from many different viewpoints.
3. We make books for everyone
We believe every reader should find books and authors that speak to them and reflect their life experiences. From our authors and illustrators to our publishing teams, we want to ensure the creators of our books represent the society we live in.
4. We think and act for the planet
We recognise our impact on the planet. We continually strive to minimise the environmental impact of our operations by innovating with the materials and processes we use, and through working with suppliers.
Find out more about what we do
Impact stories
We give everyone access to books
We create readers of the future
Through Lit in Colour & Libraries for Primaries, we're working to ensure young readers encounter a more diverse range of voices and stories.
We make books for everyone
We think and act for the planet
We give everyone access to books
We create readers of the future
Through Lit in Colour & Libraries for Primaries, we're working to ensure young readers encounter a more diverse range of voices and stories.
We make books for everyone
We think and act for the planet
We give everyone access to books
We create readers of the future
Through Lit in Colour & Libraries for Primaries, we're working to ensure young readers encounter a more diverse range of voices and stories.
We make books for everyone
We think and act for the planet
Our in-depth facts and figures
For more detail on our social impact and sustainability progress, read our latest ESG Report, which includes the latest data on carbon emissions, diversity and belonging, and pay gap reporting.
You can also read our Modern Slavery Report to learn more about our approach to protecting human rights and tackling modern slavery across our business and supply chain.