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Learn somethingJon Perks on helping small firms save cash and carbon – Small Business Retail Sessions (S1E5)
PODCAST

Jon Perks on helping small firms save cash and carbon – Small Business Retail Sessions (S1E5)

Jon Perks on helping small firms save cash and carbon – Small Business Retail Sessions (S1E5)
Catherine Erdly
Catherine ErdlyThe Resilient Retail Club

Posted: Wed 27th Aug 2025

Welcome to the Small Business Retail Sessions podcast, brought to you by Enterprise Nation's Powering the High Street programme, in collaboration with EDF.

This series explores the major challenges that today's retailers are facing – from declining footfall and vacant shop-fronts to the post-pandemic recovery and increasing demand for sustainability.

Episode five: Jon Perks, small business director at EDF

With over 25 years in the energy industry, Jon has guided thousands of businesses through energy challenges – from volatile markets to net zero ambitions. At EDF, his mission is simple: help small businesses grow by making smarter, more sustainable energy choices.

In this episode, Jon breaks down the energy landscape for small businesses, sharing clear, practical advice on how to cut costs, improve efficiency and navigate change with confidence.

Topics discussed in the episode

  • Why energy is no longer a "set and forget" cost for small businesses

  • The impact of rising energy prices on the retail sector

  • Common pitfalls small businesses face with contracts and tariffs

  • How smart meters and energy data help business owners take control

  • The importance of employee engagement in reducing energy waste

  • What drives fluctuations in global and UK energy prices

  • How small businesses can future-proof with clean energy tech

  • Why timing your energy use is increasingly important

  • How EDF and Enterprise Nation are working together to provide free energy advice

  • The future of the UK's energy system and what it means for small firms

 

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Where to listen, watch and subscribe


You can also listen on other platforms and Enterprise Nation.

You can watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube.


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Catherine Erdly
Catherine ErdlyThe Resilient Retail Club
When someone tells you “oh wow, things must be going SO well in your business” – does a part of you wish they knew how lost you sometimes feel? I know how hard you work, how badly you want to succeed, how much you believe in the potential of your business, and how much progress you’ve already made. But at some point – between juggling orders, suppliers and the relentless need to keep up on social media, you’ve begun to feel overwhelmed. And financially, you may be wondering when you’ll get the chance to pay yourself a decent salary or hire in enough help. My name is Catherine Erdly and I have over 25 years experience working with product businesses of all sizes from high street names (such as Laura Ashley, Coast and Paperchase), all the way down to brand new businesses with just a handful of customers. I have helped these businesses get more organised and make more money. Now I want to help you do the same so that you feel clearer, re-energised and confident enough to take your business to the next level. If you’ve been looking for some help with your business, and you’d like a trusted expert to work with you to: - Outline what your options are to make your business a success long term- Make the most of your time- Manage your money- Support you with a new project – like a pop-up shop or wholesale- Give you the confidence to grow as a founder and business owner Then get in touch now, and let’s talk.

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