Fentimans, a family-owned soft drink maker with a legacy of over 120 years, is facing a potential closure due to proposed glass tax reforms. The company, which has been producing premium quality beverages since 1905, has recently warned that the proposed tax could have a devastating impact on its business. Industry leaders are now calling for a government rethink, as the potential loss of this historic brand would not only be a blow to the company, but also to the UK’s rich heritage of independent, family-run businesses.
Fentimans, known for its iconic botanically brewed drinks, has been a staple in many households and establishments for generations. The company’s commitment to using only the finest natural ingredients and its traditional brewing methods have been the key to its success. Their products are not only loved by consumers, but also recognized and awarded for their superior taste and quality.
However, the proposed glass tax reforms, which aim to reduce the use of single-use plastics, could have unintended consequences for Fentimans and other glass bottle manufacturers. Under the proposed plan, the tax on glass packaging would be increased by a staggering 204%, making it one of the highest in Europe. This would mean an additional cost of around £2.35 million for Fentimans alone, putting a huge strain on the company’s finances.
Tim Dewey, Managing Director of Fentimans, expressed his concern over the potential impact of the proposed tax. He stated, “We are deeply concerned about the proposed glass tax as it could have a devastating impact on our business. Our products have always been bottled in glass, not only for their premium image but also for their sustainability. We have already taken numerous measures to reduce our carbon footprint, and this tax would completely undo all our efforts.”
Moreover, the proposed tax comes at a time when Fentimans, like many other businesses, is already struggling due to the pandemic. The company has faced challenges in sourcing ingredients, as well as disruptions in supply chains and sales channels. The additional cost of the glass tax could be the final nail in the coffin for this historic brand.
Industry leaders are now calling for a government rethink, highlighting the potential loss of this iconic brand and the impact it would have on the UK’s economy. Fentimans is not just a brand, but a symbol of the UK’s rich history of independent businesses that have stood the test of time. Losing such a renowned and beloved brand would be a huge blow to the country’s reputation as a hub for quality and traditional products.
The proposed tax also raises questions about the effectiveness of its intended purpose – reducing the use of single-use plastics. Fentimans has been a vocal advocate for sustainability and has been actively working towards reducing its environmental impact. The company has already switched to 100% recyclable packaging and has been using renewable energy sources for its production processes. By targeting glass packaging, the proposed tax would not only hurt businesses like Fentimans, but also fail to address the underlying issue of plastic waste.
In conclusion, the proposed glass tax reforms could have far-reaching and devastating consequences for Fentimans and other glass bottle manufacturers. The potential closure of this iconic brand after 120 years would be a huge loss not just for the company, but also for the UK’s heritage and economy. The government must rethink its plans and find alternative solutions that do not harm businesses and their efforts towards sustainability. As consumers, we can also show our support by continuing to choose quality, traditional products like Fentimans and standing against policies that could harm them. Let’s raise our bottles of Fentimans in solidarity and send a message that this historic brand must continue to thrive for generations to come.
