Elite Leisure Collection (ELC) is a leading hospitality group in Kent, encompassing two prestigious hotels—Salomons Estate and One Warwick Park Hotel—and Bewl Water, a popular venue for outdoor activities and events. When Sally began working with ELC, the organisation faced significant challenges in managing its complex utility needs across these properties.

The Challenge
ELC had been experiencing several issues with their previous broker. For nearly a year, their utility management became increasingly difficult due to:

• Missing bills and lack of transparency around direct debits
• Unclear account management responsibilities after the loss of their previous account manager
• Time-consuming manual processes, with utilities management taking a significant amount of the team’s time

With their contract ending, Head of Leisure Finance and Group Treasury, Sarah Brace, sought a fresh approach to simplify ELC’s utility management, resolve ongoing issues, and ensure more efficient operations.

Our Solution
Sally and her colleagues at Full Power Utilities took on the task of overhauling ELC’s utility operations. Here’s what we did.

Comprehensive portfolio review
The first step involved gathering all relevant documentation to establish a clear picture of ELC’s utility portfolio. Missing information on metering and contracts was filled in, providing a consolidated view of their utilities.

Priority procurement strategy
Working closely with ELC, the team assessed immediate procurement needs. They tendered and selected new suppliers for electricity that aligned with ELC’s budget and sustainability goals.

Seamless supplier migration
Full Power Utilities managed the transition from the previous supplier to a new one, ensuring a seamless migration that did not disrupt day-to-day operations.

Proactive gas portfolio management
With the gas portfolio in a strong position, it was advised that ELC hold any immediate action for the best market rates in the months ahead.

Immediate water savings
The team quickly negotiated new water rates, achieving immediate cost savings across ELC’s out-of-contract water supplies.

Future-ready EV charging plans
Recognising ELC’s interest in sustainable practices, the team set up discussions to explore electric vehicle charging needs, laying groundwork for future EV infrastructure. 

Client Testimonial
Sarah Brace shared her experience working with Sally and the team at Full Power:

“Sally was really helpful and informative. She and her colleagues helped us streamline all our utilities and search for better deals and tariffs so we’re confident we’re getting the best prices. Current Utilities and the Full Power team supported us with portal access to view our invoices, and their communication has been excellent. We’re really pleased we moved over as it’s a weight off our minds! Even though we previously used a broker, utility management was still taking too much of our time each week, and we often lacked visibility of monthly direct debits. We look forward to working with them in the future!”

Conclusion
By connecting with clients like ELC, understanding their needs, and implementing tailored solutions, Sally and the Full Power Team was able to relieve ELC of the stress of utility management. For large businesses with unique and complex needs, these efficiencies provide more time to focus on their core mission—delivering exceptional experiences for their guests.