How Yorkshire-based SealStop is saving water around the planet
An environmentally friendly business founded by a Yorkshire couple has increased sales in the UK, Europe and New Zealand.
Belle and Jason Richardson, who own and run a farm in Pocklington, have created SealStop, which is an automatic shut-off device designed to plug the gap between water usage and water wastage.
SealStop acts as a portable ballcock, which allows you to keep a tap or hose running and walk away, without the risk of overfilling your container.
Ms Richardson said the business had enjoyed a “wonderful year”.
She added: “From winning multiple awards for exceptional customer service and for business and ecological innovation to TV appearances, podcasts and pitching in front of incredibly talented people, it’s been full on.
“I’ve said ‘yes’ to every opportunity that’s come our way, and it has made a difference.
“Don’t get me wrong – we’ve had hiccups and failures along the way, moments of self-doubt, tricky customers and plenty of challenges.
"But we’ve also had those supportive customers who spur you on and remind you why you started this journey in the first place. We’ve been constantly innovating and improving, ironing out the quirks and refining what we do.
"We’re ending the year on a tremendous high with increasing numbers of retailers both in the UK and internationally including in Ireland, Denmark, New Zealand and Germany. Garden centres across the country, here we come.”
She said the couple had surrounded themselves with people who understood their mission: to make water saving easy for everyone.
She added: “Looking back, every pitch, every award, every challenge has been worth it.
"We’ve proved that when you combine innovative solutions with a genuine commitment to making a positive impact, incredible things happen.
"I couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead as we continue this journey.”
By 2030 global freshwater demand is projected to exceed available supply by 40 per cent.
Within just five years, whole regions may be unable to provide enough water for homes, farms, and businesses, according to Ms Richardson.
She added: “Water waste was the catalyst for inventing SealStop, my award-winning water-saving device which automatically stops water overflowing from a container.
"I am confident that next year will see our company to continue to make progress, win more awards and help gardeners across the UK to save water and time.
"SealStop tackles outdoor waste where it’s hardest to control.
Ms Richardson continued: "In my own small way, I will be continuing to help to save the planet next year.