Water competition to boost UK manufacturing sector

Water Plus is a joint venture between two of the UK’s FTSE-listed water companies: United Utilities and Severn Trent. The business was designed specifically to operate in the new market, with strong financial standing and a broad range of water experts. 

David Slack, head of industrial sector at Water Plus, said: “The changes present an important opportunity for manufacturers. Water is vital to their processes. It’s therefore important manufacturers are getting the most from their retailer and ensure their voice is heard. A water retailer that works closely with the company’s manufacturing specialists to understand their processes, and how water is used within their business, is essential.

One of the most important changes will be the separation of wholesalers and retailers. Retailers will sell water and wastewater services to customers. The water and wastewater supply provided by retailers will be underpinned by the wholesalers. The deregulation of the water market will allow retailers to be more responsive to the needs of the individual customers, promoting better innovation and service improvements.

Slack added: “The opening of the water market is just the start of things to come. It won’t happen overnight, but with more innovation from retailers and better understanding of what’s required by their customers, the partnership between a manufacturer and their water retailer could be a very beneficial one.”

Tony McHardy, Corporate Director at Water Plus, said: “In our experience, savings can be made across businesses of all sizes; especially large manufacturers with complex water or wastewater processes. Large manufacturing businesses can particularly benefit from specialist water management expertise, which starts with understanding their processes and water consumption.

“Another benefit of the new water market in England, will be the introduction of value-added services. To take one example, we have dedicated key account manager support for our larger customers – experienced people in the water industry who can support and advise businesses on their consumption.

“This is an exciting change in the market which will drive an improved range of services for manufacturers across the UK. Charges are unlikely to vary dramatically, so if customers are looking to make savings then they need to look at the wider support that’s available from suppliers.”