Member Article

Buckinghamshire manufacturers celebrate invention success

The Buckinghamshire-based manufacturers and distributors of an innovative cleaning product which could transform the way clothes are washed is celebrating the invention’s success at a global awards ceremony.

DIRO is a patented water filter system invented in Sweden by Scandinavian Water Technology AB (SWATAB) which is installed between water pipes and washing machines to clean tap water and make cleaning more efficient, making detergents unnecessary.

SWATAB was presented with WWF’s Climate Solver Award 2017 in Helsinki, Finland, which recognises businesses that are leading the way for a zero emissions future.

Smart Water Filters in The Rickyard, Clifton Reynes, Olney, who receive accountancy and business support from Clark Howes in Bicester, has signed an agreement to become the manufacturers and distributors of DIRO in the UK, Ireland and the Channel Islands.

Mark Higson, managing director of Smart Water Filters, said SWATAB’s achievement in receiving a global award was a fantastic endorsement of the product which has environmental, economic and health benefits.

“For SWATAB to win WWF’s Climate Solver Award is amazing and validates our vision of DIRO which has a wide range of significant benefits,” he said.

“It works by filtering water to such a high standard that water can naturally clean clothes and it has passed EU Ecolabel tests.

“We have been developing the product for the UK market for a year and we have had a very positive response.

“We have mainly been focusing on the care home sector since they can benefit from saving thousands of pounds a year.

“Not only are there savings to be made by not using detergents and fabric softeners and increasing the lifecycle of washing machines and tumble dryers because lime-scale doesn’t build-up but clothes can be washed in cold water so customers can save up to 80% on electricity on washing machines and 40% electricity costs on tumble dryers.

“It is also a major benefit to allergy sufferers because you no longer have to worry about allergic reactions and it improves the environment since it reduces greenhouse gas emissions.”

Mark said the support of Clark Howes in the initial months of starting up the business had been important.

“Clark Howes has been our accountants from the beginning and their friendly approach has meant I have been able to pick up the telephone to speak to one of their team whenever I have needed their advice,” he added.

“That is really helpful whether your business is in its infancy or has been trading for years.”

Marie Rawlings, of Clark Howes, which was acquired by the Baldwins Accountancy Group in May, said Smart Water Filters was at the forefront of manufacturing and distributing a product in the UK which could revolutionise the cleaning industry.

She said: “It is really exciting for Smart Water Filters to be involved with such an innovative product that is already making waves on the international stage after securing an award from WWF.

“DIRO has also been praised by the United Nations Environment Programme’s Clean Seas campaign and was a winner at the Malmo Cleantech City Awards.

“We pride ourselves on providing expert advice as business growth specialists and Smart Water Filters is an innovative, forward-thinking company which is making its mark with this climate friendly laundry technology in the UK.”

Picture caption: Mark Higson from Smart Water Filters with Marie Rawlings from Clark Howes

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Matt Joyce .