The event was organised by Herefordshire Council in partnership with Herefordshire Means Business, the second event of its kind, with the first held in June 2024 and stimulating similarly constructive conversations around business sustainability.

Introducing the event was Cllr Elissa Swinglehurst, Herefordshire Council Cabinet Member for Environment. As well as exhibitions and networking, the Breakfast included talks from: Josh Salmon, Director of Elite Plastics; Ant Stevens, Owner and Director of Ledbury Real Ales; and Jonathan Tyrell, General Operations Manager at allpay.

Speakers discussed actions taken within their respective businesses, including investing in solar and energy efficiency measures, promoting resource efficiency and recycling, and supporting nature. They recognised how these actions have in some cases contributed to better financial metrics, securing new clients, and supporting the local economy. You can read more about allpay and Ledbury Real Ales and their actions toward sustainability in their business snap shots, published on our snap shots pages.

Cllr Elissa Swinglehurst, Cabinet Member Environment, said: “It was fantastic to see so many businesses gather together to discuss how we can all work together to meet the challenge of climate change. It is important to remember that any progress is positive, whether that be identifying ways to help staff travel to work more sustainably or having net zero champions within the workforce.

“It’s really inspiring to see how three very different local companies are adapting their business to reduce their emissions, increase their sustainability and improve their profitability. Overall the Breakfast was a wonderful chance to hear about the progress being made towards a sustainable future, and the next steps we can all take.”

Josh Salmon, Director of Elite Plastics, said: “I’m not a sustainability consultant or academic - I run a busy manufacturing company, wear ten different hats, and know what it’s like to balance environmental goals with real-world business pressures. Whether you’re just starting out or already making progress, I want to show that it’s not about doing everything at once - it’s about starting somewhere."