Belu (company) facts for kids
Belu Logo
|
|
Selection of Belu drinks
|
|
| Social Enterprise | |
| Industry | Water Filtration, Water/Drinks |
| Founded | 2002 |
| Founder | Reed Paget |
| Headquarters | London |
|
Area served
|
UK, France, Hong Kong |
|
Key people
|
Natalie Campbell (Co-CEO), Charlotte Harrington (Co-CEO) |
| Products | Water Filtration Machines, Mineral Water, Tonics and Mixers |
| Revenue | £7.1m (2023) |
|
Number of employees
|
24 (As of Feb 2024) |
Belu is a special kind of company from the United Kingdom. It's called a social enterprise. This means it's a business that aims to do good for the world, not just make money. Belu sells mineral water, tonic water, and other tasty mixers. They also provide systems that clean and filter water.
Belu's main goal is to change how people think about water. They want everyone to use water wisely. The company gives all of its profits to WaterAid. This charity helps bring clean water to people around the world. Belu also makes sure its mineral water has important nutrients.
Contents
How Belu Started
Belu was started in 2002 by a filmmaker named Reed Paget. He wanted to create a bottled water company that was better for the environment. Reed was very passionate about protecting our planet. He encouraged other drink companies to think about their impact.
In 2006, Belu launched the UK's first bottle made from compostable plastic. This was a big step for being eco-friendly.
Becoming a Social Enterprise
In 2007, Belu officially became an environmental social enterprise. This meant its main purpose was to help the environment. In 2010, Karen Lynch became the new leader. She helped Belu become well-known in hotels and restaurants.
Belu worked hard to reduce its carbon footprint. By 2010, they had cut their carbon emissions by 22%. This shows their commitment to the planet.
Growing and Innovating
Karen Lynch helped Belu sell its products to more places. In 2011, the company updated its brand and bottle design. This made Belu look fresh and modern.
In 2017, Belu's water filtration systems became very popular. They even won an award for their great products.
In 2020, Natalie Campbell and Charlotte Harrington became the new leaders of Belu. They worked to expand the company. They also wanted to bring Belu's water filtration systems to other countries.
Helping the Oceans
In October 2020, Belu teamed up with Ocean Bottle. They launched a reusable bottle together. When you buy a Belu Ocean Bottle, it helps collect plastic from our oceans. This stops plastic pollution from harming marine life.
New Products and Global Reach
Belu launched new flavored mixers and tonic waters in 2021. They also started their first water filtration work in Hong Kong. This helped them reach more people around the world.
Belu also decided to invest in nature projects in the UK. They work with groups like WaterAid and The Rivers Trust. These partnerships help protect water sources and support a healthier planet.
Belu is also a "Great Place to Work." They scored 100% in areas like leadership and support in 2022 and 2023.
Since 2011, Belu has given £5.8 million of its profits to WaterAid. They have a special agreement to give all their profits to this important charity. Belu is also a member of Social Enterprise UK.
Belu has made over 108 million bottles using recycled materials. This helps create a circular economy. They have also cut their business's carbon impact by 69% since 2010.
Belu Products
Belu offers several products. These include mineral water, water filtration systems, and a range of tonics and mixers.
Mineral Water
Belu's mineral water comes from a special source in the hills of mid-Wales. The water flows through ancient volcanic rocks. This process adds important minerals to the water.
Belu's glass bottles are made in the UK. They use at least 35% recycled glass. The bottles are also 100% recyclable. You can find their still and sparkling water in different sizes.
Belu also has bottles made from 100% recycled plastic. These bottles are light and easy to crush. They are also fully recyclable.
Belu bottles and distributes its water only within the United Kingdom. This helps them keep their carbon footprint small.
Filtration Systems
Belu provides water filtration systems for businesses. These systems help clean water for offices and restaurants. They offer different machines and payment plans. Belu can also provide refillable bottles and help maintain the systems.
Tonics and Mixers
In 2021, Belu launched new tonics and mixers. Their green glass bottles use over 70% recycled material. This is more than any other tonic or mixer brand.
Their range includes Classic, Light, and Garden tonic waters. They also have Fiery Ginger Beer, Glorious Ginger Ale, Lively Lemonade, and Sunny Soda Water.
