How food and drink producers can cut costs, improve efficiency and win more business

As the world grapples with the reality of an ever-changing climate and more extreme weather, the Highlands and Islands has a unique opportunity to lead the way.

I’m not just talking about valuing and preserving our outstanding natural environment; I’m talking about driving economic growth through proactive net zero planning.

For small to medium enterprises (SMEs), this is about unlocking tangible benefits that can transform operations, boost competitiveness, and secure long-term success.

We work with clients across the region to help them get started on the net zero path and reap the business benefits of doing so.

Last September we launched the second phase of the Food and Drink TechHUB specifically for food and drink producers based in the Highland Council area. This provides financial and advice support to help businesses, including social and community enterprises, with net zero transition activities.

We’re now looking for companies to take part in the TechHUB Net Zero Mobilisation programme.

Do you manufacture food and drink products or are you part of the supply chain such as packaging or logistics? Are you keen to begin your net zero journey but not sure how to get started?

If so, this could be right up your street.

Why should you consider it? Well, three main reasons:

1.      You’ll cut your costs 

Energy is a big expense for businesses, especially in the more rural areas where utility costs can be higher and energy infrastructure a barrier. Implementing a net zero action plan can include switching to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, or hydro, or improving energy efficiency through better insulation, LED lighting, and smart technologies. Cost savings can be reinvested in the business, improving competitiveness and driving growth. The business is also protected from volatile energy prices.

An exemplar is Uile-bheist Distillery and Brewery - capitalising on the natural resources available to them, they use an innovative water source heat pump to harness heat from the water they draw from the River Ness and solar panels to generate their electricity, making Uile-bheist one of the lowest carbon distilleries on the planet.

2.      You’ll be more productive and efficient 

Net zero planning is also about streamlining operations and future-proofing your business. By adopting sustainable practices (which are often low cost or free), SMEs can identify inefficiencies in processes, from waste reduction to smarter resource management. 

This might be reducing water use or switching to circular economy principles, turning waste into commercial by-products. These changes not only lower environmental impact but enhance productivity, creating a leaner, more agile business. 

And with employees increasingly drawn to businesses with strong environmental values, positioning your business as a sustainability leader can help attract and retain top talent, further boosting productivity and morale. 

3.      You’ll win more business

As larger client organisations ramp up their sustainability commitments, they’re increasingly looking for suppliers and partners who share those values. Herein lies another opportunity. By demonstrating a commitment to net zero - through carbon reporting, sustainable sourcing, or green certifications - SMEs can tap into new markets and be much better placed to secure lucrative contracts. 

Consumers too are increasingly voting with their wallets, favouring businesses that align with their values. Showcasing net zero actions and ambitions can differentiate a brand and open up new growing markets.

Do it now!

Net zero transition is a pressing reality, and businesses that take early action will reap the greatest rewards. It’s an opportunity to lead, innovate, and thrive. By reducing energy costs, improving productivity, and winning more business, proactive net zero planning can deliver a competitive edge while safeguarding the region’s unique environment for future generations.

So get in touch and find out what the Food and Drink TechHUB Net Zero Mobilisation programme can do for you. Deadline for enquiries is 28 March 2025.

The Food and Drink TechHUB is part of the Northern Innovation Hub (NIH), a £14.2m initiative delivered by HIE under the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal.