The cost of getting water wrong is rising for UK manufacturers

For decades, water has been one of manufacturing’s most dependable utilities. But with growing pressure on resources, rising costs and increasing demand, can UK manufacturers still afford to take it for granted?

While rising water bills are often the most visible concern, the true financial impact of water extends far beyond the price of supply. From operational inefficiencies and increasing trade effluent charges to restricted production capacity, poor water management can have significant implications for business performance.

Water availability is becoming a business constraint

Despite the UK’s reputation for rainfall, reliable water availability is becoming an increasing challenge.

Without further action, England and Wales could face a public water supply shortfall of five billion litres per day by 2055.

For manufacturers, this raises important questions about future operations. What happens when additional water supply or wastewater discharge capacity cannot be secured to support increased production?

As pressure on resources grows, water availability could become an increasingly important consideration in investment decisions, site expansion and long-term growth.

Looking beyond water efficiency

Reducing consumption remains important, but using less water is only part of the solution.

Manufacturers need to consider how water is managed across the entire industrial water cycle, from sourcing and treatment to use, recovery and discharge.

Poor visibility of water use can lead to unnecessary chemical dosing, increased energy consumption and higher maintenance costs. Meanwhile, opportunities to recover and reuse water may be overlooked.

By taking a more holistic approach, manufacturers can identify inefficiencies, reduce operational costs and strengthen resilience against future challenges.

Ultimately, the question is no longer simply how much water a manufacturer uses, but how effectively that water is managed.

Discover the true cost of water

As water becomes an increasingly important business consideration, understanding the hidden costs and opportunities within industrial operations is essential.

Veolia’s latest whitepaper, The cost of no water: Why getting water right is becoming critical for UK manufacturers, explores the growing risks facing UK industry and how a strategic approach to water management can boost efficiency, resilience and growth.