Sunderland drinks manufacturer hailed for Net Zero efforts

A Sunderland soft drinks manufacturer has been praised for its ‘outstanding efforts’ to reduce its carbon footprint and support its local community.

Clearly Drinks has slashed its carbon footprint after investing significantly in new machinery and infrastructure upgrades at its 150,000st ft Southwick facility. A new multi-million-pound canning line, eco-friendly LED lighting solutions and achieving ‘zero waste to landfill’ status are just a few of its many efforts which have seen it eliminate over 300 tonnes of CO2 from its operation in recent years.

A conscious effort to localise its supply chain has also contributed to this success, with the business now sourcing 95 per cent of its ingredients and supplies from within the UK, as opposed to 60 per cent just four years ago.

Expectations for its suppliers to bring down their emissions have also been set – be it embracing new, eco-friendly materials or modes of transport – to ensure the company is doing all it can to become a more environmentally sustainable business.

Chief executive Mick Howard, who joined the company in 2018 having spent over 30 years in senior leadership roles overseeing the operations of major brands across Africa and Europe including SAB Miller, has spearheaded the drive.

He said: “Over the last few years we’ve managed to evolve quite a comprehensive programme of initiatives to become a more environmentally sustainable business.

“Like most businesses, we originally started with carbon offset programmes, such as planting trees and investing in other projects, but for us as a business, what is far more tangible is to make significant progress in reducing our footprint rather than offsetting it.”

Founded in 1885, Clearly Drinks originally started life as Fenwick & Sons before rebranding to Villa Drinks, a name synonymous with the North East which is still remembered fondly by people across the region and who’s iconic ghost sign adverts can still be seen on the gable ends of red-brick buildings across Tyne & Wear.

Today, the company employs over 100 people and remains deep-rooted in the community, creating apprenticeships for local people through its annual recruitment programme and supporting charities such as the Salvation Army, as well as maintaining a strong working relationship with Sunderland College.

“We’re also keen to ensure our staff join us on this journey and realise the benefits to them as well as the business,” Mick added.

By Mark Adair – Correspondent, Bdaily

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