Tag Archives: mochdre

News

Energy firm continues diversification journey with new solar cleaning business

INNOVATION and diversification continue at a renewable energy firm which has added a sparkling new service to its award-winning portfolio.

Carbon Zero Renewables – part of the Carbon Zero Group based in Old Colwyn, St Asaph and Mochdre – is one of the few companies in the sector to offer solar panel cleaning in addition to installation and maintenance.

The development comes after the business welcomed more than 100 guests and exhibitors to its inaugural two-day Solar and Battery Expo at Eirias Park in Colwyn Bay.

While some window cleaners will give solar panels a squeegee and scrape as part of their offering, Carbon Zero’s Managing Director Gareth Jones says customers who have invested in PV technology should stick to specialists to ensure systems continue to operate efficiently.

“We are the only company in the region and one of the few renewable energy businesses in the UK to offer a dedicated specialist cleaning service,” said Gareth, a Net Zero Ambassador for the North Wales Mersey Dee Business Council’s Net Zero North Wales network, and Vice President of the Federation of Master Builders in Wales.

“We have the expertise to do it, are fully insured and have a dedicated vehicle to clean solar panels, unlike window cleaners who will do it in addition to other areas of a property.

“As the weather improves, we will see demand increase. Solar systems are sold as a ‘fit and forget’ and some people think the glass is self-cleaning, but this is far from the truth.

“Dirty solar panels can limit system operation by 30% and be catastrophic for older systems, with old technology. Just like rain doesn’t wash your windows clean, rain also doesn’t fully clean solar panels.

“This is a specialist’s job and maintenance should be completed by experts who know how to treat and handle them. Plus, businesses will need a maintenance contract to satisfy insurance requirements.”

He added: “For us the priority is providing an end-to-end experience for our customers, from the moment we discuss their renewable energy needs through to advice, installation, and maintenance, that relationship continues for many years to come.

“Our recent Expo was an example of that, with collaborators and partners joining us to celebrate the industry and be on hand to help those needing our guidance on a range of issues.

“This surge in interest, led to us taking on new staff in the past weeks having announced our highest ever accounts, so we thank everyone for their support and encourage anyone who has any solar panel or renewable energy system needs to give us a call or keep up to date with the latest news on the sector via our popular new YouTube podcast, Eco Talk Rewired.”

For support, guidance, and more information on renewable energy options, visit the website www.carbonzerorenewables.co.uk or call 08450 34 35 40.

To watch the podcast, visit YouTube: www.youtube.com/@EcoTalkPodcast.

News

Energy boss reinforces call for safe solar on all new-builds and housing developments

AN ENERGY boss has reinforced calls to install solar panels on all new-builds and housing developments in Wales.

And Gareth Jones, Vice President of the Federation of Master Builders for Wales, insists safety must be top priority following a series of incidents in past months, notably a solar panel battery fire on Anglesey.

Gareth, Managing Director of award-winning Carbon Zero Renewables – part of the Carbon Zero Group based in Old Colwyn, St Asaph, Mochdre, Llandudno and Deeside – backed the National Infrastructure Commission for Wales’s (NICW) plea for a review of national building regulations.

They say there must be change if 100% of electricity is to be supplied by renewable energy by 2035.

“It makes total sense for new buildings – especially larger structures that use a lot of energy – to be fitted with solar panels, it is the most cost-effective approach and of course vital for the future of our planet,” said Gareth.

“But it must be done with health and safety in mind given the high number of installers joining the sector that do not have the proper experience and accreditation.

“Installing them in a loft space for example, where temperatures soar in the summer, or the examples we’ve seen of people haphazardly placing panels on roofs without using scaffolding or safety harnesses.

“This problem needs to be fixed, especially as the industry is moving more and more towards renewables – standards need to be kept high to meet that demand.”

New data from the MCS revealed in the first six months of 2023, more than 120,000 certified solar panels, heat pumps and other renewable technologies were installed in UK homes, the highest number ever.

And with the NICW urging Welsh Government to present a plan for energy leading up to 2050, Gareth said much needs to be done immediately to combat issues swirling around the energy arena.

“I have lived and breathed this industry for the last 15 years, so from a health and safety perspective, and a financial and environmental perspective, it is crucial both governments get it right,” he said.

Reflecting on recent incidents, Gareth added: “Solar and battery systems are not fit and forget systems, despite some companies selling them like that.

“They need inspecting regularly by a competent person. If you have a system in a loft right now, get a hard-wired smoke alarm fitted immediately and ensure you have a reputable organisation scheduled for regular maintenance and inspection.

“As a sector we must safeguard the future of our customers, both now and long-term by adopting safely installed renewable energy across the country.”

For support, guidance, and more information on renewable energy options, visit the website www.carbonzerorenewables.co.uk or call 08450 34 35 40.

 

News

Businesses benefit from expansion and redevelopment of leading pet retailer

BUSINESSES are benefiting from the expansion of an acclaimed independent pet retailer.

PetPlace has enjoyed a significant period of growth, revamping its Abergele store to include a cinema and play park, opening a new headquarters in Kinmel Bay and recently unveiling a revamped building in Llangefni.

The 25,000 sq ft site also includes a play park, dog wash and coffee bar and was redeveloped by Old Colwyn-based Parra’s Construction.

Managing Director Simon Pritchard, who has more than 20 years’ experience in the sector, said it was a pleasure to work with PetPlace, adding: “We were extremely excited to be a part of this project to transform the existing facility into a new retail and dog play area which would act as a blueprint for their other stores in North Wales.

“The existing structure was tired and in desperate need of modernisation, so it was a huge transformation with a relatively small team and a lot of hard work.

“I think the finished product speaks for itself, and a lot of that is testament to the staff who continued to operate while works were undertaken. It is also a credit to the management’s forward thinking and vision – we were delighted to play a part in bringing that to life.”

Meanwhile, Oxfordshire-based Knowledge Ltd was tasked with installing digital software and technology across the state-of-the-art store.

Technical Director Nick Hill said: “We were excited by their vision and after travelling up to North Wales to see the layout for ourselves identified three key areas where digital signage could be used to enhance the customer journey, from enticing passing trade through to highlighting key product information and promotions.

“The final installation comprised of three high-brightness window displays, a freestanding 55” ‘Totem’ and eight smaller wall-mounted displays, all paired with a cloud-based content management system which allows full HTML-5, video and still image content to be deployed to all displays remotely and in real-time.

“All of which provides an immersive experience that guides customers on their journey through the store.”

The final touches were placed by Sure Retail, whose Crewe team – led by Business Development Director Giles Martin – are specialists in equipment and display solutions.

He said: “I often see correlation in working with companies that share our values, and us delivering stores I’m particularly proud of.

“PetPlace Llangefni is a prime example of this, as like us they are passionate about offering the best to their customers. Utilising innovation and creativity, whilst prioritising quality, ethics, and sustainability, throughout.”

Giles added: “The result is a true ‘destination store’, a purpose-built, engaging environment focused on customer experience and servicing the community, as well as individuals.

“It’s our privilege to assist in the realisation of PetPlace’s commendable vision, and we hope customers and staff will continue to enjoy this store for many years to come.”

PetPlace’s Managing Director Sion Pritchard thanked them for bringing the dream to fruition and said the firm is committed to supporting SMEs and small businesses and boosting the economy, both locally and across the UK.

“The result is a flagship store we are all very proud of,” he said.

“The response since opening has been incredible and Llangefni will now be held up as a benchmark for quality, innovation and customer service for pets and their owners – that was the vision we had all along, and they helped us to realise it.”

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email sales@farmandpetplace.co.uk. The app is available on platforms including Google Play and The App Store. 

News

Award-winning butcher turns to solar following huge spike in energy prices

ONE of the country’s leading meat producers is using solar power to produce its award-winning sausages.

And the move to renewable energy is helping to bring down spiralling electricity prices at Edwards, the Welsh Butcher, which hit the news last autumn when its bills soared from £2,500 to £15,000 a week.

The company took the decision to contact Carbon Zero Renewables, which has been installing solar energy systems across the country for more than 15 years.

They installed 238 state-of-the-art solar panels on the roof of Edwards’ 23,000 sq ft Conwy headquarters, and the 120kW system is already paying dividends.

Early results show it will ensure a saving of more than £30,000 and 20,200 kg of CO2 a year – the equivalent to planting almost 950 trees.

Employing more than 80 staff in the town, founder Ieuan Edwards sees a light at the end of the tunnel and says this is the next step on their sustainability journey.

“The move to renewable energy aligns with our values and of course given spiralling energy costs we needed and wanted to do something,” he said.

“It’s a challenging time for everyone but this is also a long-term investment that will have a positive and sustainable impact on both our carbon footprint and overall costs for years to come.”

Ieuan added: “We thank Carbon Zero Renewables for their support and wouldn’t hesitate to work with them again or recommend their services.”

Ieuan first opened his butcher’s shop in Conwy 40 years ago. Following years of success the company expanded into a nearby production facility, where it makes its award-winning products for leading UK supermarkets, foodservice and meal-kit sectors, and international retailers.

Their growing and ever-popular range includes sausages, beef, pork and chicken burgers, gammon, bacon, and seasonal products.

Gareth Jones, Managing Director of Carbon Zero Renewables and Net Zero Ambassador for the North Wales and Mersey Dee Business Council said it was a privilege to collaborate with one of Wales’s best-loved businesses and help them make a difference to the environment.

He added: “Why more businesses aren’t looking at solar energy is quite mind boggling when you consider the effect it has on not only profits but also the world around us.

“The technology installed at their factory is the safest on the market, can be monitored 24/7 and allows for independent analysis of every solar panel on the roof, not just the overall system like others that are out there at the moment.

“Companies are realising that it’s not just about wanting to do something, it’s about having to do something for continuity and to future-proof, because this problem is not going to go away anytime soon.

“Edwards, the Welsh Butcher has recognised that as part of its overall green strategy and I’m sure they will continue to reap the rewards.”

For support, guidance, and more information on renewable energy options, visit the website www.carbonzerorenewables.co.uk or call 08450 34 35 40.

For more on Edwards, the Welsh Butcher go to www.weareedwards.co.uk.

News

Animal behaviour specialist and leading pet retailer join forces for UK-first dog play expo

PETPLACE joined forces with a leading animal play company to host a UK-first event for dogs and their owners.

The North Wales retailer’s revamped 25,000 sq ft Llangefni store held exercise and games sessions in partnership with Kong Company Ltd.

Kong ambassador and esteemed dog behaviour specialist Diane Kasperowicz shared an insight into how dogs play, with a focus on health and wellbeing and the best ways to enhance recall, improve nose work, and sharpen cognitive abilities.

Paul Ratcliffe from Kong thanked PetPlace for showcasing the “power of play” and added: “We chose to partner with them because their enthusiasm and attitude towards the welfare of dogs matches our own.

“This was the first event of its type ever held in the UK, so for it to take place over two days at PetPlace’s Llangefni store and dog park was fantastic.

“We rely on the knowledge of educated retail staff to ensure Kong products meet the needs of dogs, and after all, dogs need to play, so it’s an important connection.

“We often come across owners who show little or no interest in play, or don’t know how best to form a bond with their pet, so these sessions gave them lots of tips and advice they can take away for the future.”

Diane met with owners without their dogs, then held activities and exercises with them and their pets to see what toys their canine companions preferred, encouraging interaction to ensure more fun when out on walks or in the home.

PetPlace’s Business Development Manager Matt Davies thanked everyone who came along to the sessions.

“We have had a long and successful relationship with Kong, but this is the first time we’ve ever done anything like this,” he said.

“The feedback from our members was really positive so it’s something we will definitely look to do again in the future.”

Matt added: “PetPlace and Kong are known nationwide for pushing the envelope and being at the forefront of advances in the industry, and this was another example of that.”

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email sales@farmandpetplace.co.uk. The app is available on platforms including Google Play and The App Store. 

If you were unable to attend the event, and for more information, visit the ‘Classroom’ page on the Kong website: www.kongcompany.com.

News

Pet retailer unveils 25,000 sq ft Anglesey store as rebrand rollout continues

HUNDREDS of customers and special guests attended the grand opening of a much-anticipated pet store.

PetPlace unveiled its revamped 25,000 sq ft Llangefni site at the weekend.

There was plenty for curious canines and their two-legged friends to enjoy including an obstacle course, face painting, free ice cream, special offers, micro-chipping clinics, brand discounts and a host of games and activities.

World-renowned animal psychologist Roger Mugford – who trained the late Queen’s corgis – held free behaviour sessions, and the RSPCA and independent businesses and suppliers were on hand to share information and showcase unique products, centred on health, wellbeing, and safety.

PetPlace owners Sion Pritchard and Paul Penketh thanked everyone who came along for being part of the special day, and for supporting a raffle in aid of the company’s chosen charity, Hope House Hospice.

“We were overwhelmed by the response, from the minute the doors opened we were busy all day, it was incredible,” said Paul.

“For us it was about giving the pets and their owners a unique experience, and not just for one day, this was a flavour of the innovative and exciting developments we have in the pipeline for Llangefni and our other stores in the years ahead.”

Sion added: “In addition to the retail side of things we will be launching a new play park and coffee bar for dogs at Llangefni in the summer.

“This is another step forward for PetPlace as we align our sites under the new brand, and we would like to thank everyone who came along to our open day and all of our loyal customers for your continued support.”

As well as Llangefni, the company has stores in Abergele, Ruthin, Mold, Gledrid (Oswestry) and a headquarters in Kinmel Bay.

Among the representatives from independent firms celebrating the opening on Saturday were Gill Thomas-Jones from sustainable health and beauty range Mountain Garden Botanics, based in New Brighton, Wrexham, and Jo Parr, owner of Merseyside-based The Dog Bowl Deli.

“We are a fun way of getting healthy treats into dogs, with a human twist as the treats are modelled on cakes, cookies, donuts and more while being completely natural, full of vegetables and fresh ingredients,” said Jo.

“We are already in the Abergele play park and look forward to being part of the new park here at Llangefni as we love working in partnership with PetPlace and congratulate them on today’s event.”

Gill added: “We have a long-standing relationship with PetPlace and are honoured to be here today at the revamped store.

“The team have always supported us as a local business and to be able to display our selection of handmade shampoos, soaps, deodorant bars, candles and other items – all palm oil, cruelty and plastic free – is huge for us. Well done to everyone here on a brilliant day and good luck for the future.”

Those words were reinforced by Roger, who says the PetPlace model should be followed by other retailers in the sector.

“The staff are friendly and approachable, the variety of stock is mind-boggling and all of it focused on the health and wellbeing of pets,” he said.

“I’ve said before that PetPlace is leading the world in supporting pets and their owners and this store has taken it to a whole new level.”

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email sales@farmandpetplace.co.uk. The app is available on platforms including Google Play and The App Store. 

 

News

Solar boss urges businesses to switch to renewable energy or risk closure

A LEADING voice in the solar sector urged businesses to switch to renewable energy now or risk closure due to soaring costs.

Across the UK, the combined triple threat of rising gas and electricity bills, supply chain issues and a decrease in consumer spending is hitting the private sector hard.

With no sign of a U-turn in sight, Gareth Jones, Managing Director of Carbon Zero Renewables – part of the Carbon Zero Group based in Old Colwyn, St Asaph, Mochdre, Llandudno and Deeside – warned business owners they need to move to solar power and sustainable alternatives before it’s too late.

A report by Experian revealed up to a third of SMEs in the UK will be unable to absorb the continuing rise in costs, and Gareth believes for their long-term survival, people can no longer “bury their heads in the sand”.

Elsewhere, the ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales) revealed in the last year, more than 367,300 businesses in the UK have been forced to shut down.

“This number is staggering but what we don’t know is how many of them closed due to increased costs mainly down to energy price increases. My guess is quite a high number,” said Gareth.

Current Vice President of the Federation of Master Builders for Wales and Net Zero Ambassador for the North Wales and Mersey Dee Business Council, he added: “It is vital companies make a switch to renewable energy now, rather than waiting and waiting to see if the price of gas and electricity will fall, because even if it does, long-term that’s not the solution.

“From a financial and environmental perspective, moving away from traditional fuel and energy is the right path because we have already seen so many firms make difficult decisions and even close because the cost-of-living crisis has had such a rapid and detrimental impact, with gas and electricity bills one of the key factors.

“Obviously for any business these bills are going up and up, and larger organisations such as manufacturers with multiple sites or a huge premises are going to be hit hard.

“This is the time to get serious, because for some they will likely need planning permission, they’ll need more solar panels and a bigger system, and that takes time, it doesn’t happen overnight.

“Some large projects can take up to 12 months to get to installation phase. However, smaller commercial projects can be installed within three months depending on our workload, and we have to factor in potential shortages of equipment during peak times – the sooner solar panels are installed, the sooner you make savings.”

Gareth believes any business owner that’s not thinking long term and at lowering their carbon footprint needs a reality check.

“We are meeting with dozens of businesses owners a week, helping them navigate these tough times,” he said.

“We are not saying this to worry people, we see the repercussions every day and are here for them. There is assistance out there, so pick up the phone. We need to come together and avoid any more businesses disappearing because in this volatile market, the problem is not going to go away.”

Carbon Zero Renewables is forging new partnerships in different industries – notably retail, tourism, and hospitality – and Gareth says more and more people are seeing the benefits ahead of the summer months.

“Whatever the business, energy is a big part of it, and this is the time to make key decisions, before the colder autumn and winter period,” he added.

“Solar panels are reliable – it doesn’t have to be a bright sunny, day for them to work – and we can forecast quite easily how much it’s going to generate and save per year, whatever the geographical location, giving customers peace of mind.

“Ultimately, for holiday parks, big retail units, business estates and buildings of that size it could save tens of thousands over a period of years, so we hope people will start to make the move, for their bottom line and for the environment. The systems we are installing are the latest technology and the also some of the safest on the market.”

One company to have taken that advice is Palins Holiday Park in Kinmel Bay, whose park manager Louis Ellis said: “We are moving to become a greener and more energy efficient site so installing solar panels was the natural next step as we look to continue lowering our carbon footprint and energy costs and becoming an even more sustainable business.”

For support, guidance, and more information on renewable energy options, visit the website www.carbonzerorenewables.co.uk or call 08450 34 35 40.

News

Energy boss warns of cowboy solar installers as business surges across Wales

CONSUMERS must ensure they are not in the dark when buying solar panels and energy products following a rise in cowboy installers.

Gareth Jones, Vice President for the Federation of Master Builders Wales and Managing Director of Carbon Zero Renewables, is concerned unlicensed and inexperienced companies and individuals are entering the market and capitalising on a boom in green energy due to the increasing cost of gas and electricity.

Carbon Zero Renewables – which has sites in Deeside, Mochdre, St Asaph and a new Old Colwyn headquarters – has experienced a surge in business and taken on staff to meet demand, but Gareth is more focused on shining a light on the possible pitfalls facing homeowners.

“The industry has seen a rise in the number of installers popping up out of nowhere and disappearing again, which, if there is an issue with the panels, leaves the customer with nowhere else to go,” he said.

“We are also hearing of more and more people buying solar panels online and trying to install them themselves, which is a bad idea as insurance companies recommend all installations are done by qualified and certified experts.

“The long-term benefits of renewable energy are positive from an economic and environmental perspective, so people are better doing things the correct way with a credible supplier the first time, so they don’t have to do it again at extra cost.”

A Net Zero Ambassador for the North Wales Mersey Dee Business Council’s new Net Zero North Wales network, Gareth added: “The number of calls we’ve had from homeowners wanting advice because they haven’t been given the correct guidance and the installer isn’t around anymore, is quite frightening.

“This happened in 2015 when there was a similar problem, an influx of new suppliers flooded the market, sold the cheapest products, made some money, and disappeared.

“Given the cost-of-living crisis people cannot afford to be duped, they must do their research and due diligence because this isn’t like buying a toaster, it’s a big investment that if done right can save money and lower your carbon footprint.”

Gareth also revealed – following a Freedom of Information (FOI) request – that fire crews battled an average of 10 solar panel-related fires each month this year across the UK.

“It is so important people have the safest equipment installed or the very least fitted by an accredited company. The average solar panel claim can cost around £8,000 and one claim in 2020 caused £1.5million of damage and made 30 people temporarily homeless at a block of flats in Kent.

“Consumers needs to do their homework and the cheapest quotation isn’t always the best. Sometimes itis cheap for a reason so people must make sure they are getting like-for-like quotes.

“You need to know what you are buying and what the warranties are, this is really important. If it goes wrong who is the warranty with?”

Gareth concluded it is also crucial customers know the difference between a 10-year guarantee and a 10-year warranty; the guarantee is done by a third party – such as an insurance company – and the warranty by the company, but if the company no longer exists where do you turn?

He added: “There is a lot of ill advice out there, and let’s be honest, how many people check what panels are on their roof, or know what happens if one breaks?

“One size does not fit all when it comes to renewable energy, every property is different, so every system needs to be as well – if anyone has any concerns please get in touch because it’s time we came together and resolved this issue at a time when so many families are already struggling.”

For support, guidance, and more information on renewable energy options, visit the website www.carbonzerorenewables.co.uk or call 08450 34 35 40.

News

Siblings overcome family tragedy to plan for expansion of booming signage business

SIBLINGS overcame family tragedy to launch an innovative design and manufacturing business.

After growing up in London and Brighton, Tashka and Krystn Yeomans – directors of Warehaus Signs in Mochdre – moved to North Wales with their mum Lynn as teenagers to begin a new life in Conwy.

Sadly, Lynn passed away while they were studying at university, leaving them to raise younger brother and sister Mielan and Caedia, who were just teenagers at the time.

After completing their studies in Fine Art and Marine Biology respectively, Tashka and Krystn began working with a friend in the design industry, creating props and unique items, before deciding to take the plunge and go it alone five years ago.

“When mum passed away it was up to us to care for Mielan and Caedia, it was just the four of us as we had no other family up here, so we had to stick together,” said Krystn.

“They were still in school, so we began doing design work on a freelance basis from home, then we eventually moved to a shipping container, and then to our own premises in Mochdre where we have invested a lot in cutting-edge equipment and machinery.”

Tashka added: “It has been a rollercoaster ride and we didn’t have any contracts in place at the beginning so there were a few lessons learned but we had the bug to make and create and knew we had the determination to make a success of it.”

With guidance and advice from BusinessWales, they diversified into creating and producing signage and delivering complementary services such as vehicle graphics, printing, retail displays and interior design for clients across multiple sectors including tourism, law, health, and the trades.

Tashka now leads the in-house design team, while Krystn has responsibility for manufacturing.

With long-term plans to open further Warehauses in Cardiff and north east Wales – to serve their growing customer base in those areas – and a team of five staff, Tashka believes the “end to end” experience and “individuality” are what sets them apart.

“We often get people who want a logo or sign that doesn’t reflect them or their personality, they’ve just seen something they like elsewhere and point to that,” said the mum-of-one, whose son Luca was born just months after they launched the firm.

“We go on a journey with them, from designing the logo to installing the signage, and take great pride in the end result because it’s authentic; everyone is different so it’s important to stand out, and we help businesses to do that.”

Krystn added: “We are continuing to develop both sides of Warehaus and have been so busy in past months, it’s been non-stop.

“This year we also decided to launch a branded, corporate gift service with a focus on bespoke wooden crafted items as it’s a composite of our business, sustainable, and will provide companies and private customers with a different option. A new online shop will enable us to promote that on our website soon.

“We are in a good place with a phenomenal team and have ridden through several storms, which have only made us stronger.

“Tashka and I thank those people who have been with us along the way, especially the loyal customers we have forged partnerships with through the pandemic. Family is everything and that family feeling is something we will never lose – it’s our identity.”

For more news and information from Warehaus Signs, visit the website www.warehaussigns.co.uk and follow them on social media @warehaus_signage.

News

Pet retailer powers ahead with green vision following £250,000 investment

AN ACCLAIMED pet retailer has invested more than £250,000 in powering ahead with its net-zero vision.

PetPlace has installed up to 450 solar panels at its stores in Abergele and Llangefni, with Ruthin, Mold and Gledrid, Oswestry, set to follow.

The business has also introduced electric charging points at Gledrid, Llangefni and its Kinmel Bay headquarters – with Mold and Abergele next to have them – and they now have electric rather than gas forklift vehicles, electric company cars and digital display screens, which they hope will help towards the reduction of printed material.

Owners Sion Pritchard and Paul Penketh enlisted Tremeirchion and St Asaph-based Hafod Renewable Energy to supply and fit the panels and worked closely with other local firms to support the North Wales economy and push ahead with its ‘green vision’ as a sustainable, responsible employer, one of the leading names in the pet retail arena.

“The investment in solar panels alone will result in a carbon saving of around 40 tons of C02 per year, so long-term we will see the benefits,” said Sion.

“Initially we have focused on Abergele and Llangefni, but we will look to roll out as we rebrand and refurbish our other stores.

“All of our vehicles are now electric – including forklift trucks in the warehouses – and we are more sustainable than ever before, with more energy efficiency improvements to follow.”

He added: “As well as Hafod Renewable Energy we have worked closely with Gwynedd Forklifts and Rawson EV Power, two North Wales companies that helped us with these projects and others over the years.

“We are focused on supporting local businesses in all sectors, not just our own, which also lowers our carbon footprint and further strengthens the economy in this region at a challenging time for all industries.”

David Jones founded Hafod Renewable Energy in 2010 with his late father Richard.

He was delighted to work with PetPlace and said: “It was a big project which equated to around a quarter of an acre of solar panels.

“The installation took a couple of weeks from start to finish and also included more than 1km of mounting rail and a battery system that will store energy to run their freezers overnight, producing more than 160,000kwh per year – enough to power 50 homes.”

David added: “It was fantastic to work in partnership with such a respected, growing business which has embraced sustainability and renewable energy.

“Due to the energy crisis – which has resulted in a surge in enquiries – we are also expanding, opened a new head office and taken on two more staff so it’s a very busy time for us.”

For more on Hafod Renewable Energy, visit www.hafodrenewables.co.uk.

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email hello@farmandpetplace.co.uk.