Two companies – Axis for Business and Smarta Water – have applied for licences to operate in the open water retail market.
The companies have each applied to Ofwat for a water supply and sewerage licence, which would allow them to provide retail services to customers.
Axis for Business is a multi-utility supplier headed up by managing director David Meyers. In its application document, it said it sees water as a “natural fit” to its portfolio, which will enable it to be a one stop shop for SME telecoms and utility services.
Meanwhile, Smarta Water – which is part of water and energy consultant, Smarta Environment – said it wants to be recognised as “one of the UK’s leading water retailers”.
In its application, the company said: “We are committed to provide a high quality consistent level of customer service, underpinned by a competitive pricing strategy with an innovative approach to increasing efficiency, improving sustainability and reducing the costs to and for our customers.”
The official number of retailers now operating in the open water market is 25, although the real number of those who are active is actually closer to 14 or 15.
The newest entrants are Aquaflow and First Business Water.
Additionally, three businesses have been awarded licences to supply their own retail services. These three companies – Greene King, Whitbread and Marston’s – are working with Waterscan.
Coca Cola European Partners and Blackpool Council have applied to do the same, and are waiting to hear the outcome.