Something Brewed Ltd.
Sustainability Policy

Last updated: 2025

Something Brewed Ltd. is committed to operating responsibly, transparently, and in alignment with the values set out in the Glasgow Food & Drink Framework, as well as relevant Scottish and UK environmental and health & safety legislation. As a mobile and event-based hospitality business, we recognise our responsibility to minimise environmental impact, support local supply chains, ensure safe and ethical operations, and contribute positively to the communities we serve.

This policy sets out our commitments across sourcing, packaging, waste, power, workforce, and broader sustainability practices. It applies to all events, pop-up sites, staff, partners, and suppliers operating under the Something Brewed Ltd. name.

1. Sustainable Sourcing & Local Supply Chains

Supporting the local economy and reducing transport emissions is central to our operating model. We prioritise suppliers who demonstrate ethical, traceable, and environmentally responsible practices.

1.1 Local Food & Drink Partnerships

We work closely with a network of reputable Scottish producers, including:

  • Dear Green Coffee – ethically sourced, specialty-grade, B Corp certified coffee

  • Mossgiel Milk – organic, regenerative Scottish dairy

  • Bavarian Bakehouse – artisan local bakery products

  • Spring & Willow Grove – local food partners

  • Packaging Environmental – sustainable foodservice packaging solutions

Where possible, all food and primary ingredients are sourced locally within Scotland to support regional producers and reduce logistical mileage.

1.2 Ethical and Responsible Procurement

Our coffee is sourced using strict criteria:

  • Ethically traded

  • Specialty grade

  • Transparent supply chains

  • B Corp certified suppliers

We aim to work only with developers and suppliers whose values align with responsible production, environmental stewardship, and fair working conditions.

1.3 Assessing Non-Local Suppliers

Certain consumables, such as general foodservice packaging and sundries from Booker, currently rely on national supply chains. At present, there is limited availability of fully Scottish alternatives. We continue to monitor local market developments and commit to transitioning to Scottish providers when viable.

We also aim to challenge suppliers to improve environmental performance and explore Scottish alternatives as they emerge.

2. Packaging, Materials & Waste Management

We recognise the impact of single-use materials in the hospitality sector and actively work to reduce waste across our operations.

2.1 Low-Impact Packaging

We prioritise:

  • Fully compostable cups, lids, and serviceware

  • Paper-based packaging

  • Zero single-use plastic wherever possible

Our packaging selection follows the waste hierarchy: reduction first, then compostable or recyclable alternatives.

2.2 Reusable Systems

Where infrastructure allows, we partner with venues to minimise disposables. Examples include:

  • Use of ceramic cups at the EICC and similar venues

  • Integration with Borrow Cup or other reusable cup schemes where feasible

  • Reusable internal service containers, jugs, utensils, and prep equipment at all events

We are committed to expanding reusable systems as infrastructure across Scottish events continues to improve.

2.3 Waste Segregation & Venue Collaboration

As a pop-up operator, Something Brewed aligns with the waste management frameworks of host venues. We follow and reinforce their systems, including:

  • Segregation of recyclables

  • Compostables/food waste

  • General waste

  • Glass recycling

Our team is trained to match venue-specific waste policies and ensure correct handling during setup, service, and breakdown.

2.4 Surplus Redistribution

We work with Homeless Shelter Scotland to donate suitable perishable items after service, supporting community needs while reducing food waste.

3. Energy, Power & Environmental Efficiency

As mobile caterers, our energy usage depends heavily on site infrastructure. Nevertheless, we commit to reducing our environmental impact wherever possible.

3.1 Power Sources

We use:

  • Venue-provided mains power at indoor and most controlled environments

  • Eco-conscious generators for certain outdoor events, including hybrid or low-emission models where available

We work with event organisers to prioritise the cleanest available power source.

3.2 Energy Efficiency

Although we do not currently use smart meters or energy monitoring tools, we commit to:

  • Selecting efficient equipment where possible

  • Maintaining machinery to improve efficiency and reduce energy waste

  • Planning bar layouts to reduce unnecessary power draw (e.g., optimising machine warm-up cycles, shared refrigeration, and centralised prep areas)

3.3 Future Improvements

We intend to explore:

  • Low-energy espresso equipment

  • Carbon tracking tools tailored for mobile businesses

  • Renewable energy options at outdoor events, where infrastructure develops


4. Workforce Sustainability, Equality & Ethical Employment

People are central to our service. As a flexible and predominantly event-based employer, we aim to create an inclusive, fair, and supportive work environment.

4.1 Ethical Pay

Something Brewed Ltd. commits to:

  • Paying the Real Living Wage as a minimum

  • Enhanced rates for supervisory or specialist roles

  • Ensuring no staff member is paid below legal and industry standards

4.2 Inclusivity & Non-Discrimination

We maintain a strict equal opportunities policy covering:

  • Gender

  • Race and ethnicity

  • Disability

  • Age

  • Religion

  • Sexual orientation

  • Location of residence

  • Socioeconomic background

We encourage applications from a wide range of individuals and make hiring decisions solely based on experience, capability, and role suitability.

4.3 Flexible Staffing for Wellbeing

Although we do not employ permanent full-time staff, we operate with respect for:

  • Individual scheduling needs

  • Reasonable shift lengths

  • Fair and safe working conditions

  • Adequate breaks and rest periods

We recognise the demands of event-based work and actively manage rotas to prevent fatigue.

4.4 Training & Competence

All staff—core team and temporary hires—are trained in:

  • Workflows and service standards

  • Health & safety

  • Allergen procedures

  • Glasgow Food & Drink Framework principles

  • Waste handling and sustainability practices

This ensures safe, consistent, and responsible service across all locations.

5. Transport & Logistics

Reducing emissions through efficient logistics is a practical and achievable part of our sustainability policy.

5.1 Route Optimisation

We plan deliveries and staff routes to minimise distance travelled and fuel consumption, especially across multi-site or multi-day events.

5.2 Local Supplier Advantage

By working with Scottish producers, a significant portion of deliveries originate within a relatively small geographical radius, reducing environmental impact from transport.

6. Health, Safety & Regulatory Compliance

We are fully committed to maintaining compliance with Scottish and UK legislation relevant to:

  • Food safety and hygiene

  • Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)

  • Manual handling and workplace safety

  • Waste and environmental regulations

  • Electricity at Work Regulations

  • Glasgow City Council environmental health guidelines

We conduct regular internal reviews to ensure compliance remains up to date.

7. Continuous Improvement & Future Commitments

Something Brewed Ltd. recognises that sustainability is a continuous journey. We commit to:

  • Annual review of this policy

  • Engaging with new local suppliers as opportunities emerge

  • Monitoring industry innovations in low-impact packaging

  • Exploring energy-efficient coffee equipment

  • Collaborating with venues to expand reusable systems

  • Strengthening carbon-conscious practices as tracking tools become more accessible for small businesses

While we do not currently hold formal sustainability certifications, we aim to align with the principles of Green Tourism and B Corp frameworks as we grow.

8. Accountability & Transparency

We welcome questions, feedback, and collaboration from clients, event organisers, suppliers, and the public. Our sustainability commitments will be published openly on our website and updated as our practices evolve.

To contact us regarding this policy:
Email: info@somethingbrewed.co.uk


Company: Something Brewed Ltd., Glasgow, Scotland