Global Brands receives six-figure funding package to advance sustainability goals

Chesterfield drink supplier, Global Brands has received a £100,000 grant from the Clay Cross Town Deal’s Low Carbon Challenge Fund to advance its sustainability goals.

The grant will fund the installation of energy-efficient technologies at Global Brands’ Clay Cross distribution centre, supporting its aim to reduce its carbon footprint and achieve net zero status by 2050.

The funding will be used for three key initiatives, which includes installing energy-efficient lighting, implementing battery storage to utilise solar energy, and setting up an onsite Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuelling station.

The upgrades are expected to cut emissions from the company’s distribution operations.

Global Brands is targeting a 40% reduction in emissions per £M turnover by 2030 and a 92% reduction by 2050.

Shaun Bacon, group managing and financial director at Global Brands, said: “This investment marks another pivotal moment in our sustainability journey. As part of a single-use industry, it is crucial to lead by example and adopt meaningful changes that reduce our environmental impact. By switching to energy-efficient solutions and alternative fuels, we’re committed to doing our bit locally and hope to inspire other businesses in our community to do the same.

With plans already in place to switch the entire logistics fleet to zero-carbon by 2050, and with over 50% of the warehouse energy now powered by solar panels, this funding allows Global Brands to continue driving forward its sustainability goals.”

The grant, awarded by North East Derbyshire District Council through the low carbon challenge fund, is part of a program designed to support the shift towards a low carbon economy.

Lee Barned, chair of the Clay Cross Town Board, said: “We’re seeing some significant change as more businesses like Global Brands complete their journey with the Low Carbon Challenge Fund. Recipients have praised the process of receiving grants as being quick, easy and well worth their time, and it’s heartwarming to know we were able to support them as part of their mission to be more sustainable.”