Rising energy price volatility and hotter summer conditions are creating new operational challenges across AS Watson markets, with implications for costs, staff comfort, and the overall customer shopping experience.
Cooling already represents a significant share of a store’s daily energy footprint. As summer temperatures rise, there is an opportunity to enhance cooling efficiency while reducing environmental impact and carbon emissions, supporting more sustainable store operations.
To address these challenges, AS Watson Business Units are focusing on five key operational levers:
Enforce Temperature Standards & Preventive Maintenance: Ensure smart thermostat settings are locked in and HVAC filters/coils are cleaned before peak summer hits to prevent costly mid-season breakdowns.
Accelerate High-Efficiency Upgrades: Prioritise LED lighting transitions (which lower ambient heat generation inside the store) and HVAC upgrades in high-energy, high-footfall locations.
Expand Commercial Renewables: Secure renewable electricity arrangements where commercially viable to shield store operations from volatile grid pricing.
Future-Proof Store Design: Integrate heat-mitigation principles—such as energy-efficient entry vestibules and air curtains—into upcoming store designs and refurbishments.
Protect the Frontline: Strengthen staff protection and introduce flexible scheduling or hydration protocols during localized extreme heat events to maintain peak team performance.
Through these actions, AS Watson is advancing more energy‑efficient and climate‑resilient store operations, supporting both environmental sustainability and a positive shopping experience across its markets.
