By Business & Finance 
Pictured (L-R): John O’Neill, CEO of HUB360, and Denise O’Kelly, Chief Operations Officer of HUB36
John O’Neill is CEO of HUB360, a platform that helps companies align their operations with sustainability practices.
What inspired you to start your company?
When I established HUB360, my goal was to provide a comprehensive platform and solution to enable companies to align their operations with sustainable practices. I wanted to create a space where organisations could access the tools, resources, and expertise needed to implement environmentally friendly initiatives whilst simultaneously optimising their processes and reducing costs.
HUB360 was born out of the desire to empower businesses to embrace sustainability as a strategic advantage, rather than a burden. I firmly believe that sustainable practices can drive innovation, attract conscious consumers, and generate long-term value for organisations.
Witnessing the positive impacts that sustainable practices can have on both the environment and the bottom line, I was driven to help companies unlock this potential. I envisioned HUB360 as a catalyst for change, facilitating the transition towards a more sustainable future by providing the necessary support and guidance to organisations.
HUB360 was born out of the desire to empower businesses to embrace sustainability as a strategic advantage
What is your core product/service offering and what gap in the market are you trying to address?
HUB360 enables Manufacturing businesses scale up operations with complete visibility and centralised management of load planning right through to order delivery at an achievable cost basis for SMEs. As a result, the HUB360 Platforms plays a significant role in both reducing the impact of delivery-related CO2 emissions and in driving down costs.
How will being part of a business accelerator impact your company?
Participating in Accelerate Green has granted us access to a diverse range of mentors who possess a wealth of knowledge and experience. These mentors have shared practical insights that have allowed us to refine our business strategy and make informed decisions. Their guidance has been instrumental in helping us prioritise our efforts effectively, ensuring maximum impact in our endeavours.
The mentorship aspect of the program has not only provided us with practical advice, but has also challenged us to think critically and push beyond our limits. By sharing their “lived” real-world experiences, the mentors have inspired us to set higher goals and think bigger. Their invaluable perspectives have broadened our horizons and encouraged us to explore innovative approaches to our business.
Participating in Accelerate Green has granted us access to a diverse range of mentors who possess a wealth of knowledge and experience.
We cannot emphasise enough the profound impact that the mentorship aspect of the Accelerate Green program has had on our team. Learning from the best in the industry and gaining invaluable knowledge that directly applies to our business has been an extraordinary opportunity. The insights we have gained through this mentorship have equipped us with the tools and understanding needed to propel our business forward and achieve meaningful success.
What motivated you to apply to the Accelerate Green programme?
The decision to apply for the Accelerate Green program was driven by our recognition of the immense value that mentorship could provide to our team at HUB360. We understood that accessing the expertise and guidance of seasoned professionals through this program would be an unparalleled opportunity for our growth and development.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced since starting your company?
Promoting sustainability in business operations can sometimes be met with resistance or scepticism, particularly in industries where traditional practices are deeply ingrained. Convincing companies to shift their mindset, overcome potential barriers, and prioritise sustainability requires effective communication, education, and showcasing tangible benefits.
One key challenge has been addressing the misconception that sustainable practices are cost-prohibitive or detrimental to profitability. Many businesses have been accustomed to conventional methods that may initially appear cheaper or more convenient. Overcoming this challenge has involved showcasing the long-term cost savings, efficiency gains, and potential competitive advantages that sustainable practices can bring. It requires demonstrating that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand, driving innovation, attracting environmentally conscious consumers, and enhancing brand reputation.
One key challenge has been addressing the misconception that sustainable practices are cost-prohibitive or detrimental to profitability.
What ambitions do you have for your business in the next 1-2 years?
In the next 1-2 years, our ambitions for HUB360 encompass both business growth and driving sustainability impact, particularly in relation to Scope 3 emissions.
We aim to expand our reach and establish HUB360 as a leading platform for sustainable solutions in the manufacturing sector. This involves scaling our operations, acquiring new clients, and forging strategic partnerships to broaden our network and impact.
One of our primary ambitions is to address Scope 3 emissions, which are indirect emissions resulting from activities outside of our direct control but related to our business operations. We recognise that Scope 3 emissions can often have a significant environmental impact and tackling them is crucial for a comprehensive sustainability strategy.
We seek to continuously enhance our platform’s capabilities and expand our service offerings to provide comprehensive solutions that address a wider range of sustainability challenges. This may include incorporating additional modules or features to optimise energy management, waste reduction, or water conservation.
As we grow, we aim to strengthen our position as thought leaders in the sustainability space. Through thought leadership initiatives, industry publications, and speaking engagements, we intend to share our expertise, promote best practices, and advocate for sustainable business strategies.
Ultimately, our primary ambition is to drive measurable impact. We aim to help our clients achieve substantial reductions in their carbon footprint, improve their sustainability performance, and realise tangible cost savings through sustainable practices facilitated by the HUB360 platform.
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