Whistl

Whistl provide efficient Mail and Parcel delivery management, Fulfilment, Contact and Cross border solutions, Doordrop media and Product sampling services to businesses across the UK and internationally.

Background

With turnover of more than £766m, they are the UK’s leading logistics specialist.

For over a decade, Whistl have relied on Inspired PLC to develop a cost-effective and sustainable energy strategy.

The Challenge

In common with many large corporations, Whistl have faced significant energy-related challenges in recent years. These range from the threat posed by soaring commodity costs to the growing need to reduce adverse effects on the environment.

Tackling these challenges required an effective utilities strategy that addressed not only how Whistl buy energy and water but also how they account for the utilities they use.

The Solution

Historically, Whistl had used fixed gas and electricity supply contracts to achieve budget certainty and protection from market price volatility. But when their contract renewal dates coincided with the height of the energy crisis, we managed a switch to a more flexible alternative.

This has allowed Whistl to capitalise on market downturns and avoid getting locked into expensive tariffs.

By incorporating Whistl’s gas and electricity volumes into one of our flexible collective products, we gave Whistl the security of fixed pass-through charges for non-commodity costs, while also letting them take advantage of falling commodity prices as the energy crisis subsided.

To support their more agile procurement strategy, our annual budgets and online reporting suite offer Whistl detailed insights into their energy usage and help them plan their future spending with confidence.

We also tackled the complexity of Whistl’s contracts for metering and water. Whistl were dealing with multiple meter operators and water retailers, which complicated their administrative processes. By consolidating contracts, we have given Whistl simpler billing, better terms and reduced administration.

The Results

Alongside significant cost savings, we’ve delivered:

• Improved sustainability

In 2023, 91% of consumed electricity was from renewable sources, a 6% increase from 2022. Whistl are on track to reach their commitment to using 100% renewable electricity by 2025.

• Operational efficiencies

By consolidating water contracts, we have streamlined billing and administrative processes. By also simplifying MOP management via a single 5-year contract, we have reduced operational complexity and improved service reliability.

• Enhanced financial planning

Tailored annual budgets provide Whistl with detailed insights into their energy usage, enabling more accurate and confident future energy spending plans.

• Innovation

Our on-demand cost and consumption reporting helps Whistl understand how and where they use energy. We are also working with Whistl to evaluate the potential for solar generation across their estate.