Utility Bidder has become the latest retailer to join the open water market, after it was granted a water supply and sewerage licence by Ofwat.
In its application in January, the energy broker said the move would “complement its well-established energy management and brokerage services.”
A synopsis of its business plan said: “Customers will benefit from a multi-utility service focused on a renowned level of customer service and expertise in delivering cost savings.”
Nick Butt, business water consultant, at Utility Bidder told Utility Week: “Utility Bidder are a leading energy broker to primarily the SME market that has concentrated on the hospitality, retail and leisure sectors.
“Obtaining a licence opens up our ability to offer a full package of utilities services to give us a USP for new business and to consolidate repeat business with existing customers.”
He added: “Additionally, we will also be promoting retail services alongside added value ‘wholesale cost reduction’ services aimed at increasing water efficiency, reducing wastewater operational and disposal costs to industrial and agricultural water customers, such as farming, manufacturing, engineering and the food and drinks sectors, perhaps with a regional twist.
“All will be revealed in the coming months.”
The newest entrants, as well as Utility Bidder, are Smarta Water, Aquaflow and First Business Water.