BABTAC Comments on Increase in Water Bills and the Impact on Businesses

How will the water bill increase impact beauty businesses, and how can they prepare? BABTAC’s CEO comments…

Following the news that the average water bill will increase by 36% over the next five years according to regulator Ofwat, advocate for the beauty industry and CEO and Chair of BABTAC (British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology), Lesley Blair MBE, has commented on the potential impact on beauty businesses where water remains a crucial part of day-to-day operations.

Lesley comments, “With the average water bill expected to rise by 36% over the next few years, it’s clear to see the impact this has on households however it’s important to remember the knock-on effect this has on businesses too, particularly within the beauty industry, where water plays a vital role in day-to-day operations. 

For salon businesses, the use of water not only plays a crucial part in delivering treatments but ensuring that adequate hygiene is in place. For businesses that are already feeling the pressure of heading into a year with larger overheads, this is yet another example of strain being put on them. 

Consumer groups and politicians have put pressure on the regulator to limit the increase in bills, and we want to ensure that Government also has small businesses in mind with these discussions.

Is there anything that businesses can do to ease the pressure? Lesley explains…

“For salons that are looking to reduce their water usage, there are small changes that can be introduced, such as: 

• You could start by conducting a water audit to pinpoint areas of high consumption and wastage and identify opportunities for savings. 
• Install water-efficient fixtures like low-flow faucets and showerheads, dual flush toilets and touchless or timed faucets.
• Look to switch to energy-efficient dishwashers and washing machines, if and when it’s time to replace them. And making sure machines aren’t switched on until totally full. 
• Implement greywater recycling where possible. Collecting and reusing water from sinks, kettles, dishwashers, or washing machines for alternative uses (like watering plants). 
• Educate employees by doing training on water conservation practices. Signposts should be placed near sinks, bathrooms, and other water usage points.
• Eliminating the need for laundry, there are some brilliant eco-friendly and biodegradable alternatives out there, such as Scrummi towels.”