• Climate action is delivering measurable cost savings and strengthening business resilience. 
• According to Zero Carbon Forum’s latest data, hospitality businesses are accelerating sustainability efforts despite economic and political uncertainty. 
• Over 25 of the sector’s C-suite gathered last week to discuss a vision of a more efficient, profitable, and low-carbon future. 

Extreme weather due to climate change is already impacting the hospitality sector through lower sales, cost volatility and supply chain disruption, but leading businesses are proving that climate action is not just necessary, it is profitable.  

The latest data from the Zero Carbon Forum shows that more operators are making strategic investments to cut costs, reduce risk, and future-proof their businesses. 

At last week’s CEO Roundtable, hosted by the Forum, industry leaders discussed how aligning profit with purpose is driving results. 

Companies that transform their business by embedding sustainability into their operations are seeing lower energy bills and improved operational efficiency, and can position themselves as attractive brands for employees and customers. 

This transformation is also about seizing an opportunity to redefine what a profitable, resilient hospitality business looks like. Industry leaders are no longer just reacting to challenges; they are shaping a future where sustainability drives competitive advantage. 

Mark Chapman, CEO and Founder of the Zero Carbon Forum, said: “Imagine a pub or restaurant that uses 60% less energy, delivers thousands in additional profit per site, and generates its own power, eliminating supply shocks and price volatility. Its products are vertically farmed and locally sourced. It designs recipes that embrace new ways of delivering animal proteins without the impact on animal welfare. This is a business that isn’t vulnerable to rising costs or attacks on its brand but instead thrives on efficiency and innovation. It’s a place customers feel good about visiting and it’s an employer people want to work for. This is the vision we are setting for the sector and are excited to see the increasing commitment from our members that will make this happen.” 

The Zero Carbon Forum’s latest data confirms the sector is moving in this direction: 

• 82% of Forum members now have a dedicated sustainability lead, a 22% increase in the past year. 
• 83% of members engaged with the Forum for over a year use renewable energy, compared to 38% of new members. 
• Members have made a 13% increase in energy efficiency investments, including LED lighting, intelligent extraction systems, voltage optimisation, and heat recovery. 

Companies taking action are already seeing the financial benefits. Energy-saving measures in day-to-day kitchen operations have cut costs by more than £3,000 per site, according to Zero Carbon Forum. 

Their data also shows that new equipment is reducing carbon emissions by 45%, while the redesign of menu staples such as chicken curry are lowering costs by 22%, emissions by 47% and calories by 10%.  

Investments in electrified kitchens, estimated to cost around £50,000, are delivering annual operating savings of £10,000 to £15,000, with a typical payback period of three to five years. 

“Investor expectations and government policies are shifting, but business success will not happen in isolation. We believe the companies that act now will be the ones that remain competitive” added Chapman. “Purpose-driven action is no longer optional; it’s a strategic decision that pays off. Businesses that take the lead on sustainability will build resilience, enhance their brand, and strengthen their bottom line.”