Deborah Meaden, who began her career in hospitality, is to offer new energy efficiency advice for the hospitality sector as new research from Smart Energy GB reveals that more than 9 out of 10 small hospitality business owners are frustrated with energy waste.
The research also found that three quarters (76%) of small businesses in hospitality are concerned about the rise in energy costs this winter with almost all (92%) instructing employees to be more mindful of energy use on the premises.
This is where Deborah Meaden comes in. Smart Energy GB and Energy Saving Trust have teamed up with star of BBC’s Dragon’s Den to offer advice to the sector.
Deborah Meaden said: “British businesses have really been through the ringer recently and the fact that many smaller ones are now facing closures as a result of rising energy bills is another colossal blow.
“With so many hospitality business owners frustrated with energy waste at work, I’m pleased to be able to help them navigate this difficult time alongside Energy Saving Trust and Smart Energy GB.
“Bringing your staff on board at the beginning to help develop an energy-saving plan, and even telling your customers or clients about it, are some of the ways you could start making a difference, as well as obvious steps like getting a smart meter installed on your work premises.
“Well over a third of consumers say they are more likely to visit a business that cares about sustainability; smart meters can help with this too as they are an essential part of Britain’s commitment to reaching net-zero, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels such as coal and gas.”
Iagan MacNeil, Head of Policy at Smart Energy GB, said: “Small businesses are the beating heart of the British economy but it is clear concerns about energy use are affecting how many of them will continue to operate this winter.
“The research shows energy waste is a hot topic for employers and staff, so it is hugely important that we have teamed up with Deborah Meaden and experts at Energy Saving Trust to offer new ways to tackle it. Whether it’s turning off unused equipment or ensuring your bills are accurate, it all adds up. But the solution needs to be a collaborative approach with everyone playing a part.
“Many businesses are eligible to get a smart meter installed on their premises and this can help by giving you more control over your energy spend – a vital tool for those worried about rising prices”.
