Generating Energy

Arcane Direct Marketing has been helping businesses communicate with their customers since 1996. The family-run company, based near Birmingham Airport, provides a full direct marketing service – from data cleaning to design, print, and fulfilment. But behind the
scenes, managing rising energy costs and improving operational efficiency were growing priorities.

With production reliant on energy-hungry machinery, Arcane needed a practical solution to safeguard both the business and its customers.

As energy prices surged in 2022, Arcane’s bottom line was affected.

The company had already made small changes – switching to LED lighting, introducing battery-powered vehicles, and improving heating systems – but more significant savings were needed. Their biggest challenge was tackling the energy consumption of their production equipment, essential for day-to-day operations.

Following an energy assessment, Arcane received clear data that Solar panels were the most effective step. The company invested in a rooftop solar array. Installed in June 2024, the system provides 42,500 kWh of clean energy

The solar investment is already delivering results. Arcane expects to save around £10,000 a year on energy bills, with a payback period of just 18 months. The system is designed to last 25 years, creating long-term stability for the business. Surplus energy is sold back
to the grid, generating additional income.

The savings have also enabled further investment in the business, including new high- speed production printers and fully recyclable paper wrapping — helping Arcane stay competitive while reducing environmental impact. Plans are now in place to expand the solar array and explore additional energy-saving measures.

The move complements Arcane’s existing sustainability commitments, including ISO 14001 certification for environmental management.