Founder of Nuneaton-based HydroVeg Kits wins sustainability award

The founder of Nuneaton-based veg growing kit business HydroVeg Kits has won a UK-wide Sustainable Small Business award.

Sue Tonks, who created HydroVeg Kits in 2018, was acknowledged with the Sustainability Changemaker Award 2022.

HydroVeg Kits allows gardeners to cultivate up to 120 vegetables in a tiny space.

The components of her kits are reusable season after season. They use 70 per cent less water than soil-based plants and grow 30 per cent faster, allowing customers to grow and pick what they want to eat daily, reducing wastage.

Sue, 63, said: “I am totally overwhelmed by achieving this prestigious award. Sustainability is our highest priority, and we are constantly looking for ways to enhance our sustainability further.

“From the seeds of an idea for personal use HydroVeg Kits has made its mark in the growing world. I feel honoured that other organisations have judged it so too.”

The awards are part of the Plan it with Purpose initiative run by small business support platform, Enterprise Nation, in partnership with Aviva and TSB with the aim of shining a spotlight on businesses that focus on sustainability and purpose.

Emma Jones, CBE, founder of Enterprise Nation, said: “It’s wonderful to see the progress these small climate-friendly businesses have made and continue to make in their purpose-driven businesses.

"The reality is, in the fight against the cost-of-living crisis, businesses that are leading the way in sustainability and energy efficiency, while making a meaningful contribution to society, must become an increasingly important feature of the small business community and we must do everything we can to support them.

“Building a business around the circular economy is compelling, and our awards recognise the vital contribution these founders are making.”

Fiona Hyde, Head of Sustainability at TSB said: “We know that reducing our own environmental impact matters to customers and colleagues.

"We’re proud to support Enterprise Nation's 'Plan It with Purpose' program, helping small businesses make a positive impact and recognising the success of the five brilliant businesses that have won today.”

Plan it with Purpose has been designed to support small and medium businesses and business owners by increasing their understanding of environmental and social issues, showcasing relatable role models, and helping to build sustainable ventures while encouraging change through tailored resources, action plans and recommendations.