Orchard

Orchard is an award-winning, multi-disciplinary, integrated marketing agency based in Cardiff. 

They are also a charity partner of Size of Wales and when they hosted a Deforestation Free Business event at their studio, they knew they wanted to sign up to become a Deforestation Free Champion. So, in 2022, they began their deforestation free journey. They started with a workshop with Size of Wales to learn about tropical deforestation, talk through the resources and templates, and begin their audit of forest-risk commodities and services. Orchard already had an established Eco Team made up of colleagues from across the organisation, so this work had a dedicated team to help carry it forward. 

During their audit, they identified a number of products where they could make simple swaps for more forest-friendly alternatives, e.g. Fairtrade coffee and palm oil free pastries. They also looked into their cosmetics and cleaning products and engaged with their suppliers to influence good practice.

“Learning and reflection has been a real education for us. Understanding the negative impacts of soy and palm oil has been a revelation… That has been important in energising and activating people.” Tim Powell, Director, Orchard

They did encounter some difficulties, such as ethical finances and pensions, so challenged their providers to show their track record on ethical investments. 

“The more businesses like us challenge financial institutions and ask difficult questions, the more they have to justify what they do and clean up their act.” Tim Powell

Their next step is the development of an ethical sourcing policy, working with their suppliers to influence change, and longer term, their ambition is to work on their pension. Tim acknowledges that they’re still at the beginning of their journey and want to go much further, using their influence in Wales to try and encourage others.

“It’s been fantastic working with Orchard from the very beginning of our Deforestation Free Champions campaign. We’ve both learned from each other and they have provided us with excellent feedback to help us develop the support and resources we offer to businesses. I’m so pleased to see the evident commitment and practical actions that Orchard has taken since starting their deforestation free journey!” Angie Kirby, Advocacy Outreach Officer, Size of Wales