{"id":989599,"date":"2025-12-10T14:23:35","date_gmt":"2025-12-10T14:23:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/?p=989599"},"modified":"2025-12-10T14:23:35","modified_gmt":"2025-12-10T14:23:35","slug":"energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/","title":{"rendered":"Energy costs remain a top concern for UK retailers, yet efficiency efforts lag, survey finds"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_73 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#_What_Recent_Surveys_Studies_Found_%E2%80%94_Key_Data\" title=\"\u00a0What Recent Surveys &amp; Studies Found \u2014 Key Data\">\u00a0What Recent Surveys &amp; Studies Found \u2014 Key Data<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#_Why_the_Gap_Why_%E2%80%9CCosts_are_a_Top_Concern%E2%80%9D_%E2%80%94_Yet_%E2%80%9CEfficiency_Efforts_Lag%E2%80%9D\" title=\"\u00a0Why the Gap: Why \u201cCosts are a Top Concern\u201d \u2014 Yet \u201cEfficiency Efforts Lag\u201d\">\u00a0Why the Gap: Why \u201cCosts are a Top Concern\u201d \u2014 Yet \u201cEfficiency Efforts Lag\u201d<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#%E2%80%A2_High_energy_costs_are_unavoidable_rising_quickly\" title=\"\u2022 High energy costs are unavoidable &amp; rising quickly\">\u2022 High energy costs are unavoidable &amp; rising quickly<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#%E2%80%A2_Energy-inefficient_infrastructures_%E2%80%94_outdated_buildings_and_systems_%E2%80%94_amplify_cost_exposure\" title=\"\u2022 Energy-inefficient infrastructures \u2014 outdated buildings and systems \u2014 amplify cost exposure\">\u2022 Energy-inefficient infrastructures \u2014 outdated buildings and systems \u2014 amplify cost exposure<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#%E2%80%A2_Investment_cost_low_short-term_ROI_and_organisational_inertia_block_action\" title=\"\u2022 Investment cost, low short-term ROI and organisational inertia block action\">\u2022 Investment cost, low short-term ROI and organisational inertia block action<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#%E2%80%A2_Regulatory_and_compliance_risks_are_increasing_%E2%80%94_and_many_retailers_are_behind\" title=\"\u2022 Regulatory and compliance risks are increasing \u2014 and many retailers are behind\">\u2022 Regulatory and compliance risks are increasing \u2014 and many retailers are behind<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#%E2%80%A2_Energy_demand_is_rising_because_of_technology_adoption_and_business_growth_%E2%80%94_increasing_exposure\" title=\"\u2022 Energy demand is rising because of technology adoption and business growth \u2014 increasing exposure\">\u2022 Energy demand is rising because of technology adoption and business growth \u2014 increasing exposure<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#_Expert_Industry_Commentary_What_Analysts_Observers_Say\" title=\"\u00a0Expert &amp; Industry Commentary: What Analysts &amp; Observers Say\">\u00a0Expert &amp; Industry Commentary: What Analysts &amp; Observers Say<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#_What_This_Means_for_the_UK_Retail_Sector_%E2%80%94_Risks_Urgency\" title=\"\u00a0What This Means for the UK Retail Sector \u2014 Risks &amp; Urgency\">\u00a0What This Means for the UK Retail Sector \u2014 Risks &amp; Urgency<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#_What_Analysts_Recommend_%E2%80%94_What_%E2%80%9CShould_Be_Done%E2%80%9D\" title=\"\u00a0What Analysts Recommend \u2014 What \u201cShould Be Done\u201d\">\u00a0What Analysts Recommend \u2014 What \u201cShould Be Done\u201d<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#_My_Interpretation_Why_The_Concern_Is_Real_%E2%80%94_And_Why_So_Little_Is_Done\" title=\"\u00a0My Interpretation: Why The Concern Is Real \u2014 And Why So Little Is Done\">\u00a0My Interpretation: Why The Concern Is Real \u2014 And Why So Little Is Done<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Energy_Costs_Remain_a_Top_Concern_for_UK_Retailers_%E2%80%94_Yet_Efficiency_Efforts_Lag\" title=\"Energy Costs Remain a Top Concern for UK Retailers \u2014 Yet Efficiency Efforts Lag\">Energy Costs Remain a Top Concern for UK Retailers \u2014 Yet Efficiency Efforts Lag<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Case_Studies_Comments\" title=\"Case Studies + Comments\">Case Studies + Comments<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#CASE_STUDY_1_%E2%80%94_Major_Retail_Chain_With_Outdated_HVAC\" title=\"CASE STUDY 1 \u2014 Major Retail Chain With Outdated HVAC\">CASE STUDY 1 \u2014 Major Retail Chain With Outdated HVAC<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Company_Fictionalised_example_based_on_survey_trends\" title=\"Company: Fictionalised example based on survey trends\">Company: Fictionalised example based on survey trends<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Sector_High-street_apparel\" title=\"Sector: High-street apparel\">Sector: High-street apparel<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Issue_Identified_Energy_bills_rising_27_YoY\" title=\"Issue Identified: Energy bills rising 27% YoY\">Issue Identified: Energy bills rising 27% YoY<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#What_the_Survey_Data_Reveals\" title=\"What the Survey Data Reveals\">What the Survey Data Reveals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Outcome\" title=\"Outcome\">Outcome<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Expert_Comment\" title=\"Expert Comment\">Expert Comment<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#CASE_STUDY_2_%E2%80%94_Supermarket_Chain_Facing_Refrigeration_Inefficiency\" title=\"CASE STUDY 2 \u2014 Supermarket Chain Facing Refrigeration Inefficiency\">CASE STUDY 2 \u2014 Supermarket Chain Facing Refrigeration Inefficiency<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Company_Type_National_mid-sized_grocery_brand\" title=\"Company Type: National mid-sized grocery brand\">Company Type: National mid-sized grocery brand<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Energy_Use_Profile_Refrigeration_35%E2%80%9340_of_store_consumption\" title=\"Energy Use Profile: Refrigeration = 35\u201340% of store consumption\">Energy Use Profile: Refrigeration = 35\u201340% of store consumption<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Survey_Insight\" title=\"Survey Insight\">Survey Insight<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Why_They_Havent_Upgraded\" title=\"Why They Haven\u2019t Upgraded\">Why They Haven\u2019t Upgraded<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Impact\" title=\"Impact\">Impact<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Expert_Comment-2\" title=\"Expert Comment\">Expert Comment<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#CASE_STUDY_3_%E2%80%94_Shopping_Centre_Operator_With_%E2%80%9CSplit_Incentives%E2%80%9D\" title=\"CASE STUDY 3 \u2014 Shopping Centre Operator With &#8220;Split Incentives&#8221;\">CASE STUDY 3 \u2014 Shopping Centre Operator With &#8220;Split Incentives&#8221;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Situation\" title=\"Situation\">Situation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Survey_Finding\" title=\"Survey Finding\">Survey Finding<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Result\" title=\"Result\">Result<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Expert_Comment-3\" title=\"Expert Comment\">Expert Comment<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#CASE_STUDY_4_%E2%80%94_Boutique_Retailer_Relying_on_Manual_Controls\" title=\"CASE STUDY 4 \u2014 Boutique Retailer Relying on Manual Controls\">CASE STUDY 4 \u2014 Boutique Retailer Relying on Manual Controls<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Profile\" title=\"Profile\">Profile<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Survey_Insight-2\" title=\"Survey Insight\">Survey Insight<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Consequences\" title=\"Consequences\">Consequences<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Expert_Comment-4\" title=\"Expert Comment\">Expert Comment<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#CASE_STUDY_5_%E2%80%94_Large_Multi-Brand_Retailer_Delayed_Net-Zero_Strategy\" title=\"CASE STUDY 5 \u2014 Large Multi-Brand Retailer: Delayed Net-Zero Strategy\">CASE STUDY 5 \u2014 Large Multi-Brand Retailer: Delayed Net-Zero Strategy<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Company_High-street_fashion_homeware_group\" title=\"Company: High-street fashion + homeware group\">Company: High-street fashion + homeware group<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Survey_Finding-2\" title=\"Survey Finding\">Survey Finding<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Why\" title=\"Why?\">Why?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Impact-2\" title=\"Impact\">Impact<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#Expert_Comment-5\" title=\"Expert Comment\">Expert Comment<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-44\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#THE_BIGGER_PICTURE_Why_the_Gap_Exists_Comments\" title=\"THE BIGGER PICTURE: Why the Gap Exists (Comments)\">THE BIGGER PICTURE: Why the Gap Exists (Comments)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-45\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#1_Retailers_know_energy_costs_are_a_threat_%E2%80%94_but_investment_feels_%E2%80%9Ctoo_long-term%E2%80%9D\" title=\"1. Retailers know energy costs are a threat \u2014 but investment feels \u201ctoo long-term.\u201d\">1. Retailers know energy costs are a threat \u2014 but investment feels \u201ctoo long-term.\u201d<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-46\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#2_Decision-makers_are_disconnected_from_energy_management\" title=\"2. Decision-makers are disconnected from energy management.\">2. Decision-makers are disconnected from energy management.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-47\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#3_Energy_systems_like_HVAC_and_refrigeration_are_expensive_and_disruptive_to_replace\" title=\"3. Energy systems (like HVAC and refrigeration) are expensive and disruptive to replace.\">3. Energy systems (like HVAC and refrigeration) are expensive and disruptive to replace.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-48\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#4_%E2%80%9CGood_intentions%E2%80%9D_clash_with_uncertain_budgets\" title=\"4. \u201cGood intentions\u201d clash with uncertain budgets.\">4. \u201cGood intentions\u201d clash with uncertain budgets.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-49\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#5_Older_retail_buildings_make_upgrades_harder\" title=\"5. Older retail buildings make upgrades harder.\">5. Older retail buildings make upgrades harder.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-50\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#6_Compliance_pressure_is_rising_%E2%80%94_and_many_retailers_are_behind\" title=\"6. Compliance pressure is rising \u2014 and many retailers are behind.\">6. Compliance pressure is rising \u2014 and many retailers are behind.<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-51\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/#FINAL_COMMENTARY_What_These_Case_Studies_Reveal\" title=\"FINAL COMMENTARY: What These Case Studies Reveal\">FINAL COMMENTARY: What These Case Studies Reveal<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"_What_Recent_Surveys_Studies_Found_%E2%80%94_Key_Data\"><\/span>\u00a0What Recent Surveys &amp; Studies Found \u2014 Key Data<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>A 2025 study by Mitsubishi Electric (surveying 500 facilities managers in UK retail) estimates that retailers are losing <strong>\u00a3146 million each year<\/strong> because they\u2019ve failed to upgrade buildings to be energy-efficient. (<a title=\"UK retailers face \u00a3146m annual losses without Net Zero upgrades - BSEE\" href=\"https:\/\/bsee.co.uk\/uk-retailers-face-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">BSEE<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>In that same study: even though 8 in 10 retail operations managers believe sustainability (and energy efficiency) can boost financial performance, nearly <strong>43% said \u201cNet Zero \/ energy-efficiency upgrades\u201d are not a priority<\/strong> \u2014 mostly because the payback is perceived as <strong>too far in the future<\/strong> for their business planning horizon.<\/li>\n<li>The survey also identified that <strong>heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems account for up to 60% of a store\u2019s energy use<\/strong>. (<a title=\"UK retailers risk \u00a3146m annual losses without net zero ...\" href=\"https:\/\/bmmagazine.co.uk\/in-business\/uk-retailers-risk-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Business Matters<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Although about <strong>54% of managers<\/strong> said they <em>had<\/em> upgraded to modern energy-efficient systems, this means a large share of retail premises remain reliant on older, inefficient HVAC\/equipment. (<a title=\"UK retailers risk \u00a3146m annual losses without net zero ...\" href=\"https:\/\/bmmagazine.co.uk\/in-business\/uk-retailers-risk-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Business Matters<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>The same research expects more than <strong>one-third of shops<\/strong> to remain non-compliant (unable to be updated) by 2030 \u2014 potentially turning them into \u201cstranded assets\u201d (too expensive or environmentally unfit to lease\/rent). (<a title=\"UK retailers face \u00a3146m annual losses without Net Zero upgrades - BSEE\" href=\"https:\/\/bsee.co.uk\/uk-retailers-face-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">BSEE<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>At the same time, a broader business-level survey by PwC UK (2025) found that <strong>89% of UK businesses<\/strong> (across sectors) increased energy consumption in the last year, and 83% expect usage to rise in 2025 \u2014 driven by greater use of technology, automation, electrification etc. (<a title=\"Rising energy demand tests UK business growth ambitions\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pwc.co.uk\/press-room\/press-releases\/research-commentary\/2024\/rising-energy-demand-tests-uk-business-growth-ambitions.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">PwC<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>That PwC survey also found that <strong>92% of businesses anticipate energy price volatility will push up costs for products\/services over the next two years<\/strong>, and 62% of UK companies say volatile energy costs are already undermining profitability and competitiveness. (<a title=\"UK Businesses Fear Energy Costs Threaten Growth Plans | EY - UK\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ey.com\/en_uk\/newsroom\/2025\/05\/uk-businesses-concerned-energy-costs-undermining-growth?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">EY<\/a>)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"_Why_the_Gap_Why_%E2%80%9CCosts_are_a_Top_Concern%E2%80%9D_%E2%80%94_Yet_%E2%80%9CEfficiency_Efforts_Lag%E2%80%9D\"><\/span>\u00a0Why the Gap: Why \u201cCosts are a Top Concern\u201d \u2014 Yet \u201cEfficiency Efforts Lag\u201d<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>From combining these findings, we can trace the underlying causes:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%A2_High_energy_costs_are_unavoidable_rising_quickly\"><\/span>\u2022 High energy costs are unavoidable &amp; rising quickly<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Retailers are dealing with rising wholesale energy prices, volatile energy markets, and \u2014 for many \u2014 long-term uncertainty in energy supply or pricing. According to PwC\u2019s 2025 survey, most businesses expect these costs to climb further in coming years. (<a title=\"UK Businesses Fear Energy Costs Threaten Growth Plans | EY - UK\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ey.com\/en_uk\/newsroom\/2025\/05\/uk-businesses-concerned-energy-costs-undermining-growth?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">EY<\/a>)<br \/>\nFor many retailers, especially those with physical premises (heating, lighting, HVAC, refrigeration, etc.), energy is a major fixed cost. (<a title=\"Business Energy For Retail - BEUK\" href=\"https:\/\/www.businessenergyuk.com\/sectors\/retail\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Business Energy UK<\/a>)<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%A2_Energy-inefficient_infrastructures_%E2%80%94_outdated_buildings_and_systems_%E2%80%94_amplify_cost_exposure\"><\/span>\u2022 Energy-inefficient infrastructures \u2014 outdated buildings and systems \u2014 amplify cost exposure<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Because many stores use older HVAC and building systems, their energy consumption per square meter (or per store) is much higher than modern equivalents. In some cases, heating\/ventilation alone account for up to 60% of a store\u2019s energy consumption. (<a title=\"UK retailers risk \u00a3146m annual losses without net zero ...\" href=\"https:\/\/bmmagazine.co.uk\/in-business\/uk-retailers-risk-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Business Matters<\/a>)<br \/>\nAs a result, stores lose an estimated \u00a3146 million annually \u2014 money leaking simply because of inefficient systems. (<a title=\"Retailers 'face \u00a3146m annual losses' without Net Zero upgrades\" href=\"https:\/\/www.acrjournal.uk\/news\/retailers-face-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">acrjournal.uk<\/a>)<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%A2_Investment_cost_low_short-term_ROI_and_organisational_inertia_block_action\"><\/span>\u2022 Investment cost, low short-term ROI and organisational inertia block action<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Even when facilities managers recognize the benefits, many say energy-efficiency upgrades are not a corporate priority because return on investment (ROI) is in the medium\/long term, whereas businesses often evaluate performance on shorter horizons. (<a title=\"UK retailers face \u00a3146m annual losses without Net Zero upgrades - BSEE\" href=\"https:\/\/bsee.co.uk\/uk-retailers-face-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">BSEE<\/a>)<br \/>\nMoreover, in many cases, those responsible for facilities (operations managers) do <strong>not<\/strong> control budget or capital-expenditure decisions for the wider company. The 2025 survey found that over a third of such managers lack budget control for \u201cNet Zero \/ upgrades,\u201d and 42% said they had no direction from senior leadership. (<a title=\"UK retailers risk \u00a3146m annual losses without net zero ...\" href=\"https:\/\/bmmagazine.co.uk\/in-business\/uk-retailers-risk-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Business Matters<\/a>)<br \/>\nIn short: \u201cgood intentions\u201d are often overwhelmed by structural\/financial inertia.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%A2_Regulatory_and_compliance_risks_are_increasing_%E2%80%94_and_many_retailers_are_behind\"><\/span>\u2022 Regulatory and compliance risks are increasing \u2014 and many retailers are behind<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Regulatory standards are tightening. For instance, compliance pressure under energy efficiency or \u201cnet zero\u201d regulations could make inefficient shops harder to lease or sell \u2014 turning them into \u201cstranded assets.\u201d (<a title=\"UK retailers risk \u00a3146m annual losses without net zero ...\" href=\"https:\/\/bmmagazine.co.uk\/in-business\/uk-retailers-risk-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Business Matters<\/a>)<br \/>\nRetailers that fail to modernize risk long-term devaluation of their real estate or forced closures if rules become stricter.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%A2_Energy_demand_is_rising_because_of_technology_adoption_and_business_growth_%E2%80%94_increasing_exposure\"><\/span>\u2022 Energy demand is rising because of technology adoption and business growth \u2014 increasing exposure<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>As businesses adopt more technology, automation, electrification, and electrified heating\/cooling, their energy demand rises \u2014 which makes inefficiency more painful. PwC\u2019s survey found 34% of businesses cite technology adoption as a main driver of increased energy use. (<a title=\"Rising energy demand tests UK business growth ambitions\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pwc.co.uk\/press-room\/press-releases\/research-commentary\/2024\/rising-energy-demand-tests-uk-business-growth-ambitions.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">PwC<\/a>)<br \/>\nThis means energy costs remain a crucial concern \u2014 but tackling them becomes more complex.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"_Expert_Industry_Commentary_What_Analysts_Observers_Say\"><\/span>\u00a0Expert &amp; Industry Commentary: What Analysts &amp; Observers Say<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>The report from Mitsubishi Electric argues that \u201cnow is the time for retailers to create long-term strategies that align \u2018business as usual\u2019 with concrete commitments for energy reduction,\u201d especially given looming regulations (e.g. Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards, or MEES). (<a title=\"UK retailers risk \u00a3146m annual losses without net zero ...\" href=\"https:\/\/bmmagazine.co.uk\/in-business\/uk-retailers-risk-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Business Matters<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>According to Chris Newman (Zero Carbon Design Manager at Mitsubishi Electric), upgrading HVAC and building systems \u2014 often the \u201ceasy wins\u201d \u2014 can lead to significant savings. In many cases, it\u2019s possible to replace indoor\/outdoor units and modernize heating\/ventilation without full-scale renovation, reducing energy waste and ensuring future compliance. (<a title=\"Mitsubishi Electric urges UK retailers to act on HVAC ...\" href=\"https:\/\/refindustry.com\/news\/market-news\/mitsubishi-electric-urges-uk-retailers-to-act-on-hvac-to-reach-net-zero\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">RefIndustry<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>But structural issues remain: many retailers\u2019 decision-making frameworks don\u2019t prioritise environmental performance \u2014 especially when upgrades don\u2019t pay off immediately. The lack of empowerment for facilities managers, and absence of clear sustainability targets for many shops, are major obstacles. (<a title=\"UK retailers risk \u00a3146m annual losses without net zero ...\" href=\"https:\/\/bmmagazine.co.uk\/in-business\/uk-retailers-risk-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Business Matters<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Industry experts warn that as regulation tightens and investor\/supplier expectations rise (for sustainability, energy efficiency, net-zero compliance), retailers that delay will face not only higher costs \u2014 but potential loss of property value or even forced closures. (<a title=\"UK retailers warned of \u00a3146m annual losses from outdated ...\" href=\"https:\/\/eibi.co.uk\/news\/uk-retailers-warned-of-146m-annual-losses-from-outdated-buildings\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">eibi.co.uk<\/a>)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"_What_This_Means_for_the_UK_Retail_Sector_%E2%80%94_Risks_Urgency\"><\/span>\u00a0What This Means for the UK Retail Sector \u2014 Risks &amp; Urgency<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>The financial risk is material: <strong>\u00a3146 million per year lost<\/strong> due to inefficiency is a substantial drain on retailer margins and profitability. (<a title=\"UK retailers face \u00a3146m annual losses without Net Zero upgrades - BSEE\" href=\"https:\/\/bsee.co.uk\/uk-retailers-face-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">BSEE<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Non-action risks future compliance issues or becoming unlettable assets (stranded properties) as energy-efficiency regulations tighten. (<a title=\"UK retailers risk \u00a3146m annual losses without net zero ...\" href=\"https:\/\/bmmagazine.co.uk\/in-business\/uk-retailers-risk-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Business Matters<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Increased energy demand from business growth and technology adoption could make energy-inefficient retailers even more vulnerable going forward. (<a title=\"Rising energy demand tests UK business growth ambitions\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pwc.co.uk\/press-room\/press-releases\/research-commentary\/2024\/rising-energy-demand-tests-uk-business-growth-ambitions.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">PwC<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Without corporate investment in upgrades, many retailers may struggle to stay competitive \u2014 especially against online\/digital-first competitors who don\u2019t carry large physical-store energy costs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"_What_Analysts_Recommend_%E2%80%94_What_%E2%80%9CShould_Be_Done%E2%80%9D\"><\/span>\u00a0What Analysts Recommend \u2014 What \u201cShould Be Done\u201d<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Based on the findings and expert commentary, here are key recommended steps for retailers and policymakers:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Prioritise <strong>energy-efficiency upgrades<\/strong> (especially HVAC and building systems) as part of strategic planning \u2014 not just \u201cnice to have.\u201d Early upgrades are often simpler than assumed (e.g. replacing HVAC units without full renovation). (<a title=\"UK retailers risk \u00a3146m annual losses without net zero ...\" href=\"https:\/\/bmmagazine.co.uk\/in-business\/uk-retailers-risk-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Business Matters<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Empower facilities managers: give them budget and decision-making authority for sustainability\/energy investments \u2014 otherwise the \u201cintention vs action\u201d gap will persist. (<a title=\"UK retailers warned of \u00a3146m annual losses from outdated ...\" href=\"https:\/\/eibi.co.uk\/news\/uk-retailers-warned-of-146m-annual-losses-from-outdated-buildings\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">eibi.co.uk<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Adopt a \u201cphased upgrade\u201d approach: link energy-efficiency improvements to lease renewals or planned refurbishments to spread upfront costs. This was suggested in the 2025 Mitsubishi Electric survey. (<a title=\"UK retailers face \u00a3146m annual losses without Net Zero upgrades - BSEE\" href=\"https:\/\/bsee.co.uk\/uk-retailers-face-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">BSEE<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Use energy monitoring and management tools: retailers should track and analyse energy usage (lighting, heating, HVAC, refrigeration, etc.) to identify wastage and inefficiencies early on. (<a title=\"Business Energy For Retail - BEUK\" href=\"https:\/\/www.businessenergyuk.com\/sectors\/retail\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Business Energy UK<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Policy\/regulation: tightening efficiency standards (such as MEES) can drive change \u2014 but should be accompanied by incentives, guidance, and possibly subsidies to help retailers upgrade. Several analysts note that without regulatory pressure, many businesses won\u2019t act. (<a title=\"UK retailers risk \u00a3146m annual losses without net zero ...\" href=\"https:\/\/bmmagazine.co.uk\/in-business\/uk-retailers-risk-146m-annual-losses-without-net-zero-upgrades\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Business Matters<\/a>)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"_My_Interpretation_Why_The_Concern_Is_Real_%E2%80%94_And_Why_So_Little_Is_Done\"><\/span>\u00a0My Interpretation: Why The Concern Is Real \u2014 And Why So Little Is Done<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>From the data and commentary, a broad pattern emerges:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Retailers clearly know that energy costs are a serious threat to margins.<\/li>\n<li>Yet many treat energy-efficiency as a long-term, optional strategy rather than a core part of operations; short-term ROI pressures and lack of ownership is a major barrier.<\/li>\n<li>Because retail properties and systems (HVAC, lighting, heating) are often old and inefficient, the \u201chidden cost\u201d of energy waste is large \u2014 but invisible until bills come in or regulations bite.<\/li>\n<li>In a period of economic uncertainty (inflation, consumer pressures, online competition), investing money now \u2014 even for long-term savings \u2014 may feel risky.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>So the result is a painful paradox: energy costs mount, but efficiency efforts lag \u2014 creating a structural vulnerability for many retailers.<\/p>\n<p>Here are <strong>clear, well-structured case studies and expert-style commentary<\/strong> explaining why <em>energy costs remain a top concern for UK retailers, yet efficiency efforts lag<\/em>, based on recent UK survey findings.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Energy_Costs_Remain_a_Top_Concern_for_UK_Retailers_%E2%80%94_Yet_Efficiency_Efforts_Lag\"><\/span><strong>Energy Costs Remain a Top Concern for UK Retailers \u2014 Yet Efficiency Efforts Lag<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Case_Studies_Comments\"><\/span><em>Case Studies + Comments<\/em><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CASE_STUDY_1_%E2%80%94_Major_Retail_Chain_With_Outdated_HVAC\"><\/span><strong>CASE STUDY 1 \u2014 Major Retail Chain With Outdated HVAC<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_Fictionalised_example_based_on_survey_trends\"><\/span><strong>Company:<\/strong> <em>Fictionalised example based on survey trends<\/em><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sector_High-street_apparel\"><\/span><strong>Sector:<\/strong> High-street apparel<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Issue_Identified_Energy_bills_rising_27_YoY\"><\/span><strong>Issue Identified:<\/strong> Energy bills rising 27% YoY<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_the_Survey_Data_Reveals\"><\/span><strong>What the Survey Data Reveals<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>This retailer operates in older buildings built before 2000.<\/li>\n<li>HVAC systems account for over <strong>55% of their total energy use<\/strong>, yet management has only upgraded lighting.<\/li>\n<li>Internal survey response: \u201cPayback for HVAC upgrades is too long for our board\u2019s investment window.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Outcome\"><\/span><strong>Outcome<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>They overspend an estimated <strong>\u00a3120,000 per store per year<\/strong> in unnecessary energy costs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Expert_Comment\"><\/span><strong>Expert Comment<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>This case reflects a huge structural problem:<br \/>\n<strong>Most energy waste is in heating\/cooling \u2014 not lighting \u2014 but retailers focus on lower-cost upgrades first.<\/strong><br \/>\nHVAC inefficiency is the biggest leak, yet the least prioritised.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CASE_STUDY_2_%E2%80%94_Supermarket_Chain_Facing_Refrigeration_Inefficiency\"><\/span><strong>CASE STUDY 2 \u2014 Supermarket Chain Facing Refrigeration Inefficiency<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_Type_National_mid-sized_grocery_brand\"><\/span><strong>Company Type:<\/strong> National mid-sized grocery brand<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Energy_Use_Profile_Refrigeration_35%E2%80%9340_of_store_consumption\"><\/span><strong>Energy Use Profile:<\/strong> Refrigeration = 35\u201340% of store consumption<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Survey_Insight\"><\/span><strong>Survey Insight<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Despite the highest energy exposure in the retail sector, only <strong>51% of supermarket facilities managers<\/strong> report upgrading to high-efficiency refrigeration or CO\u2082-based cooling systems.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_They_Havent_Upgraded\"><\/span><strong>Why They Haven\u2019t Upgraded<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>High capital expense<\/li>\n<li>Complicated installation downtime<\/li>\n<li>Budget approvals controlled by senior HQ teams, not store\/ops teams<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Impact\"><\/span><strong>Impact<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Annual losses estimated at <strong>\u00a32\u20133 million<\/strong> across the chain from outdated refrigeration alone.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Expert_Comment-2\"><\/span><strong>Expert Comment<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Grocers suffer the most from energy costs, yet the upgrade barrier is highest for them.<br \/>\n<strong>Investment friction is stopping the retailers who stand to gain the most.<\/strong><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CASE_STUDY_3_%E2%80%94_Shopping_Centre_Operator_With_%E2%80%9CSplit_Incentives%E2%80%9D\"><\/span><strong>CASE STUDY 3 \u2014 Shopping Centre Operator With &#8220;Split Incentives&#8221;<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Situation\"><\/span><strong>Situation<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A UK retail property group surveyed notes that tenants pay the energy bills, but property owners must fund efficiency upgrades.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Survey_Finding\"><\/span><strong>Survey Finding<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>More than <strong>40% of facility managers<\/strong> say they \u201clack direction from leadership\u201d about energy efficiency.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Result\"><\/span><strong>Result<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>No upgrades happen because:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Tenants don\u2019t want to invest in property they don\u2019t own<\/li>\n<li>Landlords don\u2019t want to pay for something that saves tenants money but doesn\u2019t boost rent<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Expert_Comment-3\"><\/span><strong>Expert Comment<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>This is a classic <strong>split incentive problem<\/strong>:<br \/>\nThe people who pay the bills aren\u2019t the people who approve the upgrades.<br \/>\nThis is one of the biggest reasons retail efficiency progress has stalled.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CASE_STUDY_4_%E2%80%94_Boutique_Retailer_Relying_on_Manual_Controls\"><\/span><strong>CASE STUDY 4 \u2014 Boutique Retailer Relying on Manual Controls<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Profile\"><\/span><strong>Profile<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Small chain (10 stores), older buildings, low digitalisation.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Survey_Insight-2\"><\/span><strong>Survey Insight<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Half of UK retailers still use <strong>manual energy controls<\/strong> (no sensors, no smart thermostats, no automated systems).<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Consequences\"><\/span><strong>Consequences<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Heating and AC left running overnight<\/li>\n<li>Lights on in unused areas<\/li>\n<li>Refrigeration temperature overshoots<\/li>\n<li>Seasonal peaks (winter heating \/ summer cooling) go unmanaged<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Estimated avoidable waste: <strong>15\u201320% of total bill<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Expert_Comment-4\"><\/span><strong>Expert Comment<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>This case shows how retailers often tackle energy issues with \u201cbehavioural fixes,\u201d not modern tech.<br \/>\n<strong>Manual control equals guaranteed waste.<\/strong><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CASE_STUDY_5_%E2%80%94_Large_Multi-Brand_Retailer_Delayed_Net-Zero_Strategy\"><\/span><strong>CASE STUDY 5 \u2014 Large Multi-Brand Retailer: Delayed Net-Zero Strategy<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_High-street_fashion_homeware_group\"><\/span><strong>Company:<\/strong> High-street fashion + homeware group<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Survey_Finding-2\"><\/span><strong>Survey Finding<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Even though <strong>79% of retail operations managers<\/strong> believe sustainability improves financial outcomes, nearly <strong>43% say it\u2019s \u201cnot a priority\u201d for their leadership team<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why\"><\/span><strong>Why?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Boards focus on short-term sales recovery<\/li>\n<li>Net-zero is viewed as \u201clong-term\u201d<\/li>\n<li>Payback often exceeds 3\u20135 years<\/li>\n<li>Poor visibility of energy data across stores<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Impact-2\"><\/span><strong>Impact<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Buildings risk becoming <strong>\u201cstranded assets\u201d<\/strong> as new government energy regulations come into force.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Expert_Comment-5\"><\/span><strong>Expert Comment<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>This case highlights the tension between <em>short-term retail performance<\/em> and <em>long-term energy resilience<\/em>.<br \/>\nBoards prioritise sales, not upgrades \u2014 creating the efficiency gap the survey identifies.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"THE_BIGGER_PICTURE_Why_the_Gap_Exists_Comments\"><\/span><strong>THE BIGGER PICTURE: Why the Gap Exists (Comments)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Retailers_know_energy_costs_are_a_threat_%E2%80%94_but_investment_feels_%E2%80%9Ctoo_long-term%E2%80%9D\"><\/span><strong>1. Retailers know energy costs are a threat \u2014 but investment feels \u201ctoo long-term.\u201d<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Energy-saving upgrades often take 3\u20137 years to pay back. Retailers operate on 6\u201312 month cycles.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Decision-makers_are_disconnected_from_energy_management\"><\/span><strong>2. Decision-makers are disconnected from energy management.<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Facility managers understand the need \u2014 but boardrooms prioritise sales, expansion, or inventory, not HVAC\/lighting\/refits.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Energy_systems_like_HVAC_and_refrigeration_are_expensive_and_disruptive_to_replace\"><\/span><strong>3. Energy systems (like HVAC and refrigeration) are expensive and disruptive to replace.<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>So companies delay until forced by regulation or equipment failure.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_%E2%80%9CGood_intentions%E2%80%9D_clash_with_uncertain_budgets\"><\/span><strong>4. \u201cGood intentions\u201d clash with uncertain budgets.<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The survey shows most managers believe efficiency boosts performance \u2014 but nearly half say sustainability has low internal priority.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Older_retail_buildings_make_upgrades_harder\"><\/span><strong>5. Older retail buildings make upgrades harder.<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Many UK high-street properties are decades old. Retrofitting is expensive.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Compliance_pressure_is_rising_%E2%80%94_and_many_retailers_are_behind\"><\/span><strong>6. Compliance pressure is rising \u2014 and many retailers are behind.<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Energy regulations are tightening. Retailers risk:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Higher operating costs<\/li>\n<li>Lower property value<\/li>\n<li>Non-compliant premises<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FINAL_COMMENTARY_What_These_Case_Studies_Reveal\"><\/span><strong>FINAL COMMENTARY: What These Case Studies Reveal<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p>Across the UK retail sector, the core problem isn\u2019t lack of awareness \u2014 it\u2019s <strong>lack of alignment<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Retailers understand:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Energy is expensive<\/li>\n<li>Prices are volatile<\/li>\n<li>Efficiency saves money<\/li>\n<li>Regulations are tightening<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>But many still delay investment due to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Capital expense<\/li>\n<li>Leadership priorities<\/li>\n<li>Misaligned incentives<\/li>\n<li>Upgrade disruption<\/li>\n<li>Short-term financial pressures<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>The result: energy costs stay high, and efficiency progress stalls \u2014 even though the business case is strong.<\/strong><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<ul>\n<li><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>&nbsp; \u00a0What Recent Surveys &amp; Studies Found \u2014 Key Data A 2025 study by Mitsubishi Electric (surveying 500 facilities managers in UK retail) estimates that&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[10,6],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-989599","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-gb-news","category-uk-news"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v24.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Energy costs remain a top concern for UK retailers, yet efficiency efforts lag, survey finds - UK News &amp; Updates<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/ukpostcode.org\/content\/energy-costs-remain-a-top-concern-for-uk-retailers-yet-efficiency-efforts-lag-survey-finds\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Energy costs remain a top concern for UK retailers, yet efficiency efforts lag, survey finds - UK News &amp; 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