Fifth generation family business invests in green technology for future thanks to Low Carbon Grant

A South Yorkshire rural business has invested in a green technology uplift, with the support of a government-funded carbon reduction grant.

Argo Feeds, based in Penistone, has replaced two of its diesel-fuelled forklift trucks with electric powered alternatives which will be recharged through the company’s existing solar PV system. The investment is set to save the family business £4,399 a year in diesel and reduce its annual carbon emissions by 11.6 tonnes.

Argo Feeds received a Low Carbon Grant towards the investment of new Linde lithium-ion battery-powered forklift trucks. This funding was awarded through Barnsley Council’s Net Zero Barnsley programme, supported by the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) administered via South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA).

Director of Argo Feeds Tom Goldthorpe said: “We’re very proud of our heritage as a fifth-generation family business, and proud that we’ve become one of the largest manufacturers and distributors of animal feed in the country. We know we need to evolve in changing times to stay ahead of our competitors. Investing in new green technology and our own energy generation is a big part of our strategy.”

Net Zero Barnsley, delivered by The Business Village in partnership with Barnsley Council, has worked with more than 250 local businesses to help them identify opportunities to reduce carbon emissions. It has delivered £430,000 worth of grants for initiatives like this, which they anticipate will collectively take more than 345 tonnes of carbon out of the atmosphere each year.

Business Development Manager Kevin Steel said: “Argo Feeds is a perfect example of an established local business rooted in the rural economy which is forward-focused and constantly striving to boost efficiency, profitability and sustainability.

“Our Low Carbon Grants and innovation support are designed to help businesses like this invest in greener working practices to help them work towards net zero carbon emissions and save money in the long term.”

Councillor Robin Franklin, Barnsley Council's Cabinet spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: "Our Inclusive Economic Growth Strategy outlines how important it is for us to protect and enhance our manufacturing and logistics sectors, so it's fantastic to see Argo Feeds investing in green technology through our Net Zero programme.

"We must also protect our borough for future generations and this investment will both reduce the company's carbon emissions and their costs. This shows that growth and sustainability can go hand-in-hand as businesses embed green practices into their operations for the benefit of themselves and the environment as we work towards making our borough net zero carbon by 2045, in line with our Sustainable Barnsley ambitions. We wish Argo Feeds every success in the future."

Argo Feeds produces an extensive range of own-brand feed for horses, poultry and small holders’ livestock and delivers across the UK through its associated road haulage business. Argo also operates a busy country store and pet food retail outlet on site. It employs more than 100 people.

The business installed a substantial 220kWh solar PV system on its roof tops in 2024 which already powers more than a third of its milling and business operations. Its new EV forklifts will now plug into this system and recharge sustainably within half an hour. They will also help to reduce particulate emissions and noise levels across its busy 4.5-acre site. Further investment in green technology is planned for the future.

Tom said: “I’d urge any business to work with Net Zero Barnsley advisors to investigate the best way to reduce energy bills and carbon emissions. The expert advice and financial support we’ve gained has significantly helped us to take the next step on our journey.”

Low Carbon Grants will be available from April 2026 to March 2027 via advisors at Barnsley Council, accessed through its Enterprising Barnsley team.

The grants support capital projects for eligible small businesses to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions; reduce energy costs, make their businesses more competitive, resilient and productive and potentially safeguard and create jobs through improved profitability.

All UK businesses must reduce carbon emissions to net zero by 2050, and Barnsley Council has set an earlier target of 2045. Actions to reduce carbon may include switching to sustainable forms of energy, investing in new equipment to improve efficiency, adopting smart technology, making behavioural changes in the workplace, reducing waste, considering supply chains and supporting sustainable transport schemes for staff. To find out more about Low Carbon Grants in Barnsley, contact lowcarbon@barnsley.gov.uk.