Supplier Awards 2025: Sustainability Initiative of the Year – Food & Beverage – Marlish Waters

Marlish Waters’ environmental credentials are in its DNA. The soft drinks producer, established on Marlish Farm in Hartburn, Northumberland, was the first company to can spring water in the UK.

 

The company invested in its own onsite canning line to ensure its recyclable aluminium cans had the lowest possible environmental footprint, and in the past 12 months it has started to package its products in 100% recycled cardboard that is produced just 30 miles from the farm in Durham. This has allowed the firm to remove all plastic from its production line.

 

Marlish Waters has also moved to 100% renewable energy in the past year. Its onsite solar tracking system, which was installed in 2016, was no longer able to meet its production needs, so in 2023 the company undertook an infrastructure upgrade and installed a three-phase power supply. This has allowed the additional energy needs to be supplied by renewable energy from a Scottish Power wind and solar farm.

 

In addition, it also upgraded its forklift to an electric vehicle, powered by 100% renewable energy.

 

The company, which is surrounded by more than 200 acres of farmland, saw an additional opportunity to promote biodiversity and planted more than 8,000 trees in 13 different species. This has helped to increase biodiversity through bringing wildlife to the area, improving soil structure and drainage, as well as helping to offset carbon emissions from its production facility.

 

Marlish Waters chooses British ingredients wherever possible. For example, in August it launched its latest flavour, Marlish British Blackcurrant, which uses 100% British blackcurrants from a farm in Hereford. The company has therefore been rightly recognised for making environmental sustainability integral to its business strategy.

 

Judges’ comment

“A company that takes its carbon footprint seriously. Using 100% renewable energy shows commitment to the future.”

Tim Radcliffe, net zero food programme manager, NHS England

 

Shortlist

• Belu
• Glebe Farm
• Marlish Waters
• Sysco