History of the company
Ellis Eggs is a well-established company with a rich history spanning approximately 60 years. Originally a family-run business, it changed hands in 2024. The company employs around 30 people, with a mix of part-time and full-time staff. Ellis Eggs primarily serves the food service industry, which accounts for around 70% of its operations, while the remaining portion of its business is dedicated to supplying to all the major supermarkets.
Participation in the Carbon Reduction Pilot
Ellis Eggs was invited to participate in the Carbon Reduction Pilot, an initiative designed to help companies reduce their carbon footprint and promote more sustainable ways of working. The company eagerly accepted the invitation, driven by a proactive approach to environmental responsibility.
As part of their efforts around sustainability, Ellis Eggs have already installed solar panels and implemented extensive recycling practices. The creation of a practical Carbon Reduction Plan was utilised by Ellis Eggs to communicate with their customers about this achievement. A copy of the Carbon Reduction Plan was sent to all their customers, outlining the measures in place and practical steps to reduce carbon.
Ellis Eggs supply Tesco, who were delighted to see the Plan. Tesco is committed to achieving net zero across its value chain by 2050 and has already reduced its operational emissions by 65% since 2015, as Enfys Fox, Relationship Manager for Local Sourcing at Tesco, said, “Tesco is committed to building a more sustainable food system, and we’re proud to work alongside the Welsh Government in this transformative pilot programme. We recognise the role industry has to play in helping reduce carbon emissions. By supporting suppliers such as Ellis Eggs in establishing their impact and providing practical actions to take forward, we are taking important steps to address the climate crisis and ensure a sustainable future for the industry.”
Insights and benefits
Jason Ellis, the General Manager at Ellis Eggs, shared some insights about their experience with the Carbon Reduction Pilot, “It was certainly a worthwhile experience, and I’m surprised that something mandatory hasn’t been introduced at a UK-wide level to benchmark companies’ environmental performance.
“Ultimately, we need to be showing how we’re trying to reduce our impact on the environment, so we certainly found the experience worthwhile. Participating in the pilot not only helps the business but also contributes to a broader understanding and commitment to environmental sustainability and reducing carbon footprint.
"It really puts into perspective what we are doing as a business, not just for the company and the environment, but also on a personal level. All our staff are now recycling and they understand the importance of it. I believe this awareness will extend to their home environments, creating a positive knock-on effect."
Jason also highlighted the business benefits of participating in the Carbon Reduction Pilot, stating, “Engaging in this initiative has not only enhanced our environmental credentials but also improved our operational efficiency. By identifying areas where we can reduce waste and energy consumption, we have been able to cut costs and improve our bottom line. This has made us more competitive in the market and has strengthened our relationships with key customers who value sustainability.”
Ultimately, we need to be showing how we’re trying to reduce our impact on the environment, so we certainly found the experience worthwhile. Participating in the pilot not only helps the business but also contributes to a broader understanding and commitment to environmental sustainability and reducing carbon footprint. It really puts into perspective what we are doing as a business, not just for the company and the environment, but also on a personal level. All our staff are now recycling and they understand the importance of it. I believe this awareness will extend to their home environments, creating a positive knock-on effect.
Future plans
Ellis Eggs is committed to continuing its sustainability journey through the introduction of several new initiatives with Jason saying, “The company is exploring various measures, including expanding solar panel installations, implementing food waste collections, and reducing the thickness of egg boxes to save on cardboard. Additionally, we are transitioning to box printing to eliminate the need for non-recyclable stickers.”
In conclusion, Ellis Eggs' participation in the Carbon Reduction Pilot has been a valuable experience. The company remains dedicated to its sustainability goals and looks forward to making positive steps and moving forward in their journey towards reducing its carbon footprint.
Is your business looking to develop a carbon reduction plan?
Improve your sustainability practices with our Carbon Reduction Plan. Get expert guidance and support by emailing SustainableFD@gov.wales with “Carbon Reduction Pilot” in the subject line.
