Yorkshire’s Fastest 50: how sustainability is reshaping business growth

From reducing emissions to rethinking supply chains, these businesses are showing how environmental and social responsibility can drive positive change whilst also boosting profitability.

While the pace and approach may differ, a common theme is emerging: sustainability is no longer a side project or a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) exercise. It’s influencing how businesses grow, who they partner with and how they attract and retain talent. Whether it’s responding to customer expectations, tightening regulations or internal values, it’s clear that sustainability is now a core part of strategic decision-making.

We spoke to several 2025 Ward Hadaway Fastest 50 companies about the practical steps they’re taking and asked Christina Kettlewell, a Director in the built environment team at Ward Hadaway, what legal and commercial issues business leaders should be considering.

What does sustainability look like in action at your business?

For Hull-based John Good Group, sustainability is already part of daily decision-making. The business achieved operational carbon neutrality in 2022 and continues to expand its efforts. “Our headquarters were built using recycled materials, we’ve invested in EV chargers and all our locations have now switched to renewable energy tariffs,” says CFO Ben Norman. “It’s not just about the environment, we’re also committed to social impact, with grant schemes, employee giving programmes and a People and Planet Committee to help shape our approach.”

Wilson Power Solutions in Leeds is focused on decarbonisation by supplying the electrical infrastructure needed for clean energy, electric vehicles and battery storage. “We manufacture the UK’s most energy-efficient distribution transformer, the Wilson e4 Ultimate Low Loss Amorphous, and supply sectors like transport and renewables that are critical to achieving Net Zero,” says Managing Director Erika Wilson. “Our growth is coming from enabling projects like EV charging infrastructure and large-scale battery storage, so we’re seeing sustainability not just as a goal, but as a growth driver.”

Harrogate-based Vida Healthcare, a dementia care provider, is further along its journey to Net Zero and has produced its first sustainability report which helped identify what steps still need to be taken to support its Net Zero ambitions “We’re making progress through practical changes that don’t have to cost a fortune,” says Managing Director James Ryecroft. “In many cases, we’ve found small steps can make a big difference and our staff are behind it, which really matters.”

What’s next for you as a business in terms of your sustainability goals?

For some, it’s about pushing beyond internal emissions. “Our next focus is on our Scope 3 emissions, working with customers and suppliers to reduce indirect impact,” says John Good Group’s Ben Norman. “There’s also work to do on skills. Yorkshire businesses need access to people who can deliver sustainability goals across operations.”

At Leeds-based First Response Group the company is integrating sustainability into operations and culture. “We’ve reduced print waste, introduced LED lighting and optimised our energy use,” says Managing Director Barry Dawson. “But it’s not just about carbon. We’re also focused on inclusive growth, fair pay and reducing our gender pay gap. That’s how we define sustainability.”

Digital transformation is also playing a role. Real estate firm North Property Group is shifting marketing and record-keeping online to cut paper use while also exploring partnerships with developers that prioritise eco-friendly construction methods and energy-efficient design. Its upcoming asset management app will further support this effort by promoting digital record-keeping, helping investors move away from paper-based processes.

What legal and commercial issues do businesses need to think about?

Christina Kettlewell, a Director in the Built Environment team at Ward Hadaway, says there’s a growing recognition that sustainability isn’t just about good intentions – it’s about legal accountability too. “We’re advising more clients on ESG-linked contracts, such as green leases, environmental disclosures and supplier agreements that reflect sustainability standards. These issues are starting to shape how businesses operate.”

Christina says a clear, joined-up approach is essential. “One of the biggest risks we see is inconsistency. If you’re publishing sustainability targets but not backing them up contractually that can lead to disputes and reputational damage. In the real estate sector, for example, we are seeing much more collaboration between landlords and tenants of business premises where green lease provisions are seen as a mutually beneficial way to help both businesses achieve and back up their sustainability credentials.”

She also highlights the commercial benefit of embedding sustainability early. “We’re seeing businesses win work and attract talent because they’ve built ESG into their operations properly. It’s becoming a differentiator. Treat sustainability like any other business priority, set clear expectations, document them properly and review them regularly. That’s what gives it weight and makes progress more likely.”

If your business is scaling and you’re looking to embed sustainability into your operations, contracts or supply chain, Ward Hadaway’s team can help you put the right structure in place – please get in touch with Christina Kettlewell.