Tim Spann of Keller discusses why kitchen retailers need to seize the opportunity to lead the sustainability revolution
Pictured is Keller Kitchens' Tim Spann, Head of UK Sales.
"AtKeller, we've been at the forefront of kitchen sustainability since 2015 when we committed to becoming carbon neutral. By April 2017, we proudly achieved carbon neutral status, and since then, we've reached the pinnacle of sustainability - Level 5 on the CO2-Performance Ladder. While our journey has involved significant investments, the results speak for themselves. We're now reaping the long-term benefits of our efforts. We're eager to share our success and demonstrate the value of producing kitchens through the most sustainable practices with retailers."
Kitchen retailers should know that there are real incentives for being more sustainable apart from feeling like you are doing some good in this world! In the UK, there is a variety of incentives, both government-led and industry-specific, that encourage kitchen retailers to adopt more sustainable practices. These incentives typically aim to reduce carbon emissions, promote resource efficiency, and improve overall environmental impact.
Pictured is Keller's Misty Grey kitchen.
A good starting point is making sure products are manufactured by the most sustainable means possible. But there's more and here are some examples:
1. Government grants and schemes
- Energy efficiency grants:The UK government offers various energy efficiency schemes, such as the Energy Company Obligation(ECO),which provides financial support for businesses to implement energy-saving measures. Retailers can benefit by improving energy efficiency in their operations, including lighting and heating systems.
2. VAT reductions
- There are VAT reductions for energy-efficient products under certain schemes. For example, if kitchen retailers offer energy-efficient appliances (such as energy-efficient fridges, dishwashers, and ovens), they may benefit from VAT reductions or exemptions.
3. Circular economy incentives
- The UK government is pushing fora circular economywhich encourages businesses to adopt sustainable practices like reusing materials, recycling, and minimising waste. There are incentives for businesses to implement these practices, including potential tax relief for recycling or reusing old kitchen materials, or support for remanufacturing processes.
- Extended Producer Responsibility(EPR),which came into effect during 2024, requires businesses to take greater responsibility for their products and the waste they generate. Kitchen retailers which align with this shift early may benefit from avoiding penalties and gaining consumer trust.
4. Sustainability certifications
- Retailers can earn eco-labels or sustainability certifications (such as ISO 14001, FSC-certification for wood products, or the EU Ecolabel), which can improve their reputation and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Being certified could also potentially help retailers qualify for certain funding opportunities or tax breaks tied to environmental performance.
- The Sustainable Furniture Guideby the Furniture Industry Research Association (FIRA) provides advice on how furniture and kitchen retailers can improve their sustainability credentials. Participation could provide a marketing advantage.
5. Incentives for waste management
- Kitchen retailers which adopt sustainable waste management systems may benefit from various incentives such as tax reductions or rebates for reducing landfill waste, increasing recycling rates, or reusing materials.
- Businesses in the construction and design sector can benefit from reduced landfill tax or other financial incentives for diverting waste from landfills.
6. Low-carbon and renewable energy initiatives
- For kitchen retailers which operate from a physical location, there are incentives for adopting renewable energysources such as solar panels, wind energy, or heat pumps. This could include subsidies or grants (e.g., the Renewable Heat Incentive and Green Gas Support Scheme) that make transitioning to renewable energy more financially viable.
7. Carbon neutral and net-zero goals
- Many businesses in the UK are setting ambitious net-zero carbon targets and achieving these can attract positive attention from investors and customers. The government and local councils sometimes offer financial support for businesses transitioning to net-zero emissions. This might include grants for carbon-reduction technologies or assistance with improving supply chain sustainability.
- There are also various carbon offsetting schemes that retailers can join, helping them neutralise their emissions. Participation in such programmes might result in marketing advantages and attract customers who value corporate responsibility.
8. Consumer demand for sustainable products
- As consumers increasingly prioritise sustainability, many retailers find that adopting eco-friendly kitchen products, such as energy-efficient appliances, eco-friendly worktops, and sustainable materials (e.g., FSC-certified timber, recycled materials), helps differentiate them in the marketplace. Some retailers report that offering environmentally responsible products is driving increased sales and customer loyalty.
9. Local authority and industry-based schemes
- Some local authorities offer incentives or grants for businesses adopting green practices, including the use of sustainable materials, or improving the energy efficiency of buildings. Industry associations like the Kitchen Bathroom and Bedroom Specialists Association (KBSA)also provide advice, support, and recognition for businesses making sustainability strides.
10. Sustainability in product design and manufacturing
- Incentives may also be available for retailers which focus on designing and sourcing more sustainable kitchen furniture, fixtures, and appliances. This could include access to subsidised training, industry-specific awards, or public recognition for excellence in sustainable product design.
Key considerations for kitchen retailers:
- Supply chain:Retailers are incentivised to work with manufacturers and suppliers who provide eco-friendly, low-carbon products. The growing emphasis on sustainability across industries means that collaborating with greener suppliers might not only reduce costs (e.g., energy and materials savings) but also provide competitive advantages.
- Consumer trends:With the growing consumer demand for sustainable products and practices, adopting more sustainable business practices can boost sales, improve brand loyalty, and attract new customers.
In summary
Overall, the UK government and other bodies are actively encouraging businesses, including kitchen retailers, to adopt more sustainable practices. These incentives range from direct financial support, such as grants and tax relief, to longer-term advantages, such as improved brand reputation and access to new customer segments. By embracing sustainability, kitchen retailers not only comply with regulations but also position themselves as responsible businesses in a growing eco-conscious market.
For further information, please visitwww.kellerkitchens.com.
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With Compliments:
Taylor Alden
Email:media@tayloralden.co.uk
*Editors' note:
Parent company, DKG, has become the first kitchen manufacturer to reach the highest level on the CO2-Performance Ladder. The level 5 certificate demonstrates that the company has taken big steps to reduce carbon emissions. Not only internally, but throughout the entire supply chain. This makes Keller a leader in sustainable initiatives in the European kitchen industry.
The sustainable initiative aligns with the Dutch government's ambition to achieve a fully circular economy by 2050. This requires thousands of companies large and small to transition to a new way of working.