How green does your factory grow?
When M&S selected Brandix to become a 'model green factory' in 2007, there were plenty of challenges to overcome.
The 30 year old factory was using relatively high amounts of energy and water – not least because, in Sri Lanka’s sub-tropical climate, air conditioning is needed throughout the year.
As M&S’s Plan A team and the Brandix environmental and management teams began work on converting the factory, they identified some key opportunities for savings. Using rainwater for washing, WC flushing and watering the garden were some, as well as sorting and recycling waste.
Today, there’s been around a 70% reduction in water use and approximately 50% less energy is used than before the conversion. The energy reductions are mainly thanks to a new, lower energy air conditioning system, and by increasing daylight in the factory, so fewer lights are needed. In addition, the factory are working towards their ultimate aim of sending no waste to landfill.
Brandix are also continuing to push recycling. They audit suppliers, and have already reduced the factory’s food waste.
We always wanted the model factory to act as an inspiration to our other key suppliers – and it has. Many of them have visited the factory, been impressed by the efficiencies achieved there, and are now drawing up plans to develop their own ‘eco’ factories, either in their existing buildings, or in new locations.
It just goes to show what can happen when you plant the seed of an idea…
M&S Café triple certification coffee
When you order a cup of coffee in our café it will be freshly made from scratch. Every M&S Barista is expertly trained to make perfect shots and frothy milk with every cup. You'll also find little extras like our coffee loyalty card
