Touchwood marks Earth Day with sales growth and energy reduction

Touchwood has reflected Earth Day with a strong start to 2026 reporting growth in footfall and sales alongside a significant reduction in energy use.  

After the first three months of 2026, Touchwood footfall is up by 5.1 per cent and tenant sales are up by 8.9 per cent against the same period last year with energy consumption down by 19 per cent year on year.

The performance coincides with Earth Day and reflects what Touchwood describes as a combination of commercial success and environmental progress, underpinned by its sustainability strategy.

The progress was highlighted at the Solihull Chamber’s Business Growth Studio event at Touchwood where fellow Workman-managed Birmingham Business Park and James Halloworth, the Workman IBOS lead, teamed up with Solihull Council to offer practical advice to fellow Chamber members.

Touchwood has delivered a strong commercial start to 2026, while significantly reducing energy consumption following the implementation of its new Intelligent Building Optimisation System (IBOS).

The system integrates with the centre’s existing Building Management System to proactively identify and flag energy-saving opportunities, enabling more efficient operations without compromising the visitor experience.

This latest milestone builds on a long-standing commitment to sustainability. Touchwood has held ISO 14001 accreditation since 2014, using this baseline to continually improve energy performance year-on-year.

In addition, the centre achieved ISO 50001 accreditation in 2018, reinforcing its structured approach to environmental management and its ongoing focus on reducing environmental impact.

Further recognition includes a Green World Awards Silver, awarded last week for Touchwood’s biodiversity initiatives.

The award highlights the centre’s work to enhance local habitats and support wildlife, contributing positively to the wider Solihull environment.

Touchwood also continues to support the next generation in developing sustainable habits through its involvement in the Greener Schools Awards.

The centre has sponsored Oak Cottage Primary School, which is currently ranked number one in the UK for Planet Care points in The Hidden Treasure Hunt—a nationwide campaign encouraging families to recycle unwanted electrical items responsibly.

The programme helps pupils understand that old electricals are not simply waste but contain valuable materials that can be recovered and reused when recycled correctly. By taking part, schools compete to win new technology for their classrooms.

Touchwood general manager, Tony Elvin, said: “As Touchwood celebrates Earth Day, these achievements underline a clear message - sustainable investment is not only good for the planet but also supports long-term commercial success and community impact across Solihull.”

The campaign runs until Friday 5 June 2026, and the local business community is encouraged to get involved.

By donating unwanted or broken electrical items for recycling through Oak Cottage Primary School, businesses and residents alike can help the school maintain its top position and secure new equipment, supported by Microsoft and Currys Business.