Are UK businesses really prepared for water shortages as a business risk?
18th July 2026
It’s no secret that water scarcity is a growing concern in the UK. So, let’s take a look at whether UK businesses are prepared for water shortages.
Water shortages are no longer just an environmental concern. They are becoming a genuine business continuity risk. From manufacturing and food production to construction and hospitality, organisations are increasingly exposed to supply chain disruption, rising operating costs and regional water restrictions. This calls for a change and a more conscious way of using water.
As one of the UK’s leading water suppliers, we know first-hand the challenges water shortages present to UK businesses and the work being done within the wholesale market to counter the issue. With the right preparations, however, UK businesses can play a part in lowering these risks and help to contribute to a more sustainable future.
Why are water shortages becoming a business risk?
Virtually every UK business depends on water. From agriculture to manufacturing, offices to restaurants, a steady and reliable water supply for drinking, sanitation, heating, cooling, food preparation and specific processes. Even if a business doesn’t use much directly on its own premises, there’s a hidden water footprint to consider. Basic supplies like paper, steel, concrete, electricity, computer hardware, food, clothing and packaging all consume large quantities of water during production.
The fact is some sectors simply cannot operate without reliance on high volumes of water. According to the latest data from the Environment Agency’s National Framework for Water Resources, industry (manufacturing and industrial), agriculture and power generation simply are not feasible without high levels of water consumption.
Water shortages across UK businesses have the power to derail vital processes that keep entire industries going, with the impact of operational disruptions, increasing water rates and pressure on business profits causing economy-wide consequences.
Is your business prepared? Key questions to ask
With just over half of organisations considering water a significant risk to their operations, UK businesses are now more than aware of the impact of water shortages.
Water-related disruption is already affecting businesses across the UK. In fact, research suggests that 64% of organisations have experienced water-related challenges, with the average financial impact estimated at around £67,000 annually. The question is no longer whether we might face water scarcity and is instead one of how prepared we will be when it does. it’s safe to say the business world is far from prepared.
Here are a few key questions to ask to determine the risk water scarcity poses to your business:
- Do you know where your biggest water risks are?
- Could a supplier disruption affect your operations?
- Are you monitoring your water usage?
- Do you have a contingency plan for restrictions or drought?
- Have you identified opportunities to improve water efficiency?
Understanding these risks is often the first step towards building greater resilience. Practical measures may not be the most glamorous solutions but they can make a meaningful difference – including regular water audits, identifying leaks, actively monitoring consumption and investing in water-efficient appliances and processes.
How to build resilience with smarter water management
Now you have a clear understanding of the water-related challenges that relate to your business, it’s time to build a water management strategy that mitigates these risks.
Thankfully, you don’t have to manage water risks alone. Here at Everflow, we go beyond helping our customers lower their business water prices. We are a water retailer that can guide and support you with proactive water management to keep water-related issues to a minimum.
We understand water shortages are very real threats to UK businesses. That’s why now is more important than ever to take positive steps to enhance your resilience, boost efficiency, strengthen your operations and plan ahead for water-related challenges.
Contact Everflow today!
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