‘Huge milestone’ as ViDrate wins innovation award

A Yorkshire-based business has been recognised for its groundbreaking approach to hydration, winning the Innovation Award at the Yorkshire Post Business Excellence Awards.

ViDrate, founded by Keighley locals Nick Hird and Rob Bennett, has revolutionised hydration with the world’s first zero-sugar, additive-free electrolyte sachets, helping people stay hydrated while cutting down on single-use plastics. 

Nick said: “Winning the Innovation Award is a huge moment for ViDrate, and I couldn’t be prouder of our team and the incredible journey the brand has been on.

“This is a testament to the hard work, passion and creativity that everyone involved has poured into the business.

“Being recognised by the Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Awards is another huge milestone for the brand.”

Launched in 2019, ViDrate’s sachets offer fruity flavours with added vitamins and electrolytes, delivering under 15 calories per serving. Despite challenges in manufacturing, the duo’s perseverance resulted in a product free of artificial ingredients and bulk agents.

Sustainability is a core focus for ViDrate, which reduces nearly 11kg of plastic waste per person annually and is developing fully recyclable sachets and a plastic-free ‘clip strip’ for retailers.

Having moved to a new headquarters in Keighley to scale operations, ViDrate is now available at a range of selected retailers including Boots, Superdrug and Whole Foods London, as the company rapidly grows. 

This year saw an overall revenue growth of 120 per cent, while the company has also received backing from shareholders including world-leading mountaineer Kenton Cool, McFly drummer Harry Judd, and Dr James Morehen, performance nutritionist to a number of sports stars and previously nutritionist to England Football.

Nick added: “To see how far we’ve come, from an idea sparked by watching students refill their water bottles to a business driving real impact in hydration, is incredibly rewarding.

“Just this year we’ve experienced 120 per cent overall revenue growth, with 900 per cent retail sales growth, expanded internationally and moved into our first 4,000 sq. ft headquarters in Keighley.

“Looking ahead, we are committed to leading the rapidly growing electrolyte market and continuing to develop the products that our customers love.

“Our mission has always been about making hydration easier, healthier and more sustainable, and we’re excited to keep pushing boundaries in this space.”

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