LESS POLLUTION: The bench which uses solar power to light the adverts.
A HAMPSHIRE inventions company will see turnover soar 1,000 per cent by selling a major UK supermarket chain its recycled carrier bags back to them in the form of an advertising bench.
The massive deal for 3,000 units will see sales at Southampton new technology firm Grayhatch climb from £1.5m to £15m over the next three years, bosses claim.
It is also good news too for city manufacturing firm The Window Company, which will make many of the units and is considering expansion to cope with the demand.
Until now Grayhatch, which has ten staff, has largely focussed on selling innovative toothbrushes with toothpaste in the handles and glow in the dark torches that are easy to find when the power goes off.
Designed by local inventor Graham Smith, the benches aim to replace traditional advertising in light-boxes outside stores.
Low-energy "bio-luminescent material" powered by solar panels replaces wasteful light-bulbs in the advertising panels above the bench, which also gives customers a comfy spot to sit.
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Made largely from recycled plastic carrier bags, Grayhatch claims the benches have a zero carbon footprint and could each save 200 tonnes of pollution from entering into the atmosphere every year.
"At the moment they use these big lightboxes outside supermarkets and they use millions of tonnes of carbon just illuminating adverts. They have fluorescent bulbs just burning off the grid.
"Ours collects daylight and is switched on automatically at night and is environmentally friendly.
"The order is for 3,000 benches over three years. They want to use five at each of their locations. The energy they save will be phenomenal.
"It's absolutely fantastic for Greyhatch and for the environment."
The supermarket chain, which is not being identified but is one of Britain's biggest retailers, has an exclusive contract for the first year but Grayhatch have already had enquiries from other retailers both in the UK and abroad.
"This gives us a base to launch in the rest of the world," said Graham. "The market is worldwide and absolutely massive. Light-boxes are everywhere and they are polluting the environment."
Posted by: Simon Hayes, Chandlers Ford on 9:52am Fri 4 Jan 08
Itīs about time someone came up with an idea like this (and from Hampshire too!!!). Iīve often driven passed many retail outlets and shopping parks and thought to myself how much electricity must be being wasted. This is brilliant and I can see how these benches will have a huge impact on the environment. AND!!! made from recycled plastic.
Good luck to greyhatch, this company is doing what many of us dream of but do little about.
Itīs about time someone came up with an idea like this (and from Hampshire too!!!). Iīve often driven passed many retail outlets and shopping parks and thought to myself how much electricity must be being wasted. This is brilliant and I can see how these benches will have a huge impact on the environment. AND!!! made from recycled plastic.
Good luck to greyhatch, this company is doing what many of us dream of but do little about.
Posted by: Nick Bartlett, Chelsea on 9:59am Fri 4 Jan 08
A great story, why havenīt I heard of this company before. Working in the city as a broker we see many new and innovative companies arise. This outfit look prime for investment from VC or the private sector. I really hope that we see this company boom and stay UK based as itīs all too often that investment from overseas can entice good British firms abroad.
Everyoneīs talking about the environment these days and Blue Chip organisations are having to make changes rather than just profits.
Well done to whoever found this story. Good work. I look forward to reading further news on them.
A great story, why havenīt I heard of this company before. Working in the city as a broker we see many new and innovative companies arise. This outfit look prime for investment from VC or the private sector. I really hope that we see this company boom and stay UK based as itīs all too often that investment from overseas can entice good British firms abroad.
Everyoneīs talking about the environment these days and Blue Chip organisations are having to make changes rather than just profits.
Well done to whoever found this story. Good work. I look forward to reading further news on them.
Posted by: Sarah Timms, Basingstoke on 1:25pm Fri 4 Jan 08
I just saw this item and would just like to say that why arenīt bus companies using this bench for Bus Stops. Saving Electricity means saving the planet. Thatīs got to be good. I donīt drive and when I go shopping I rely on shelters whilst waiting for my transport. Great idea. Keep up the good work.
Sarah
I just saw this item and would just like to say that why arenīt bus companies using this bench for Bus Stops. Saving Electricity means saving the planet. Thatīs got to be good. I donīt drive and when I go shopping I rely on shelters whilst waiting for my transport. Great idea. Keep up the good work.
Posted by: Mark Jones, Hastings on 2:16pm Fri 4 Jan 08
If Lidl are taking this amazing bench does it mean that ALL retailers will be buying into it. I think we all know that signs on Bus Stops etc use electricity all night which is paid for by our council taxes. If this does get put into more and more public places hopefully our council tax bills will be reduced. As for them being defaced... I canīt comment as I have not yet seen one of these Solar benches but feel sure that the manufacturers will have addressed this potential issue.
If Lidl are taking this amazing bench does it mean that ALL retailers will be buying into it. I think we all know that signs on Bus Stops etc use electricity all night which is paid for by our council taxes. If this does get put into more and more public places hopefully our council tax bills will be reduced. As for them being defaced... I canīt comment as I have not yet seen one of these Solar benches but feel sure that the manufacturers will have addressed this potential issue.
Posted by: shaun giggs, west end nr Southampton on 10:10pm Fri 4 Jan 08
All supermarkets should have the eco benches not just ASDA or LIDL I went to Tescos and there is no where to just sit down and read the echo or papers while the other half is shopping. And if there is a special offer i might even buy it. but all my mates know.....no way would he go into a supermarket. any way [bold]British inventions we are the best[/bold]
All supermarkets should have the eco benches not just ASDA or LIDL I went to Tescos and there is no where to just sit down and read the echo or papers while the other half is shopping. And if there is a special offer i might even buy it. but all my mates know.....no way would he go into a supermarket. any way British inventions we are the best
Posted by: Jessica, Bitterne on 10:24pm Fri 4 Jan 08
I went to school with Graham. Well who would have thought it. The other day i went on his website it is www.grayhatch.com FOUND IT FROM THE ECHO. Well done the echo for some good news for once and i have children and i know we have to do something to stop using grid generated power. WOW "Graham, impressed and proud"
I went to school with Graham. Well who would have thought it. The other day i went on his website it is www.grayhatch.com FOUND IT FROM THE ECHO. Well done the echo for some good news for once and i have children and i know we have to do something to stop using grid generated power. WOW "Graham, impressed and proud"
Posted by: andrew, Florida ex Soton on 10:41pm Fri 4 Jan 08
I presume Gareth is responsible for this. If so for the first time i congratulate you on finding a story that is first class and worth printing.
Each day we glance at the non intersteing dull stuff but this. well done Gareth and Garham Smith from Grayhatch I bet they have more things coming....Can you image the potential in Florida????? Do they have a website?
I presume Gareth is responsible for this. If so for the first time i congratulate you on finding a story that is first class and worth printing.
Each day we glance at the non intersteing dull stuff but this. well done Gareth and Garham Smith from Grayhatch I bet they have more things coming....Can you image the potential in Florida????? Do they have a website?
[bold]I asked the manager in totton asda and the answer was yes we would love to have them but where are they avaliable form so dont know that so if anyone does please tell asda[/bold] i was on here before about the benches
I asked the manager in totton asda and the answer was yes we would love to have them but where are they avaliable form so dont know that so if anyone does please tell asda i was on here before about the benches
Posted by: Harry Pilipiszyn, SOUTHAMPTON on 11:15pm Fri 4 Jan 08
I have worked for the EU in Renewables (energy) this is fantastic if you are average person reading this you do not know how much this man Graham Smith has helped you and your family. This guy needs nothing he is brilliant please Graham My Email harrypilipiszyn@btin
ternet.com Dont know how to get hold of you we need to talk. Thank you..
I have worked for the EU in Renewables (energy) this is fantastic if you are average person reading this you do not know how much this man Graham Smith has helped you and your family. This guy needs nothing he is brilliant please Graham My Email harrypilipiszyn@btin
ternet.com Dont know how to get hold of you we need to talk. Thank you..
Posted by: Jane, Winchester on 11:32pm Fri 4 Jan 08
Ive never made a comment on this site until now
saving the environment with big business paying for it i just have to agree.........thanks to grayhatch and that graham person for thinking of it...
Ive never made a comment on this site until now
saving the environment with big business paying for it i just have to agree.........thanks to grayhatch and that graham person for thinking of it...
Posted by: Sheitma Pance, Soton on 11:17am Sat 5 Jan 08
The Echo states: "Southampton new technology firm Grayhatch"
So why does grayhatch.com state that they are based in Alicante, SPAIN??
Far from being a British success story, they are a SPANISH success story.
The Echo states: "Southampton new technology firm Grayhatch"
So why does grayhatch.com state that they are based in Alicante, SPAIN??
Far from being a British success story, they are a SPANISH success story.
Posted by: Barry Mung, Totton on 11:29am Sat 5 Jan 08
I wonder if they'd be interested in my invention?
I have invented some maglev boots.
Powered by a couple of AA batteries, the boots enable you to glide effortlessly a couple of inches above any metal surface, at speeds of up to 30 mph.
All I have to do is convince the Council to lay metal pavements.
I wonder if they'd be interested in my invention?
I have invented some maglev boots.
Powered by a couple of AA batteries, the boots enable you to glide effortlessly a couple of inches above any metal surface, at speeds of up to 30 mph.
All I have to do is convince the Council to lay metal pavements.
Posted by: Richard Judd, Southampton on 6:51pm Sat 5 Jan 08
Good to see comment on what is wonderful eco recycling product. Also looked at Website and saw Spanish details..but with inventions like this Graham can afford to base himself in the better climate of Spain!! but really this should be something appauled by all
Good to see comment on what is wonderful eco recycling product. Also looked at Website and saw Spanish details..but with inventions like this Graham can afford to base himself in the better climate of Spain!! but really this should be something appauled by all
Posted by: Lee, Paphos Cyprus on 7:55pm Sat 5 Jan 08
I read the report and it says that they are making them in the city i think that must be Southampton. So if it creates employment and wealth who gives a monkeys where the company is based. So long as it makes work for people. Nissan make cars in Sunderland but they are a [bold]JAPANEESE COMPANY[/bold]
I read the report and it says that they are making them in the city i think that must be Southampton. So if it creates employment and wealth who gives a monkeys where the company is based. So long as it makes work for people. Nissan make cars in Sunderland but they are a JAPANEESE COMPANY
Posted by: Sheitma Pance, Soton on 8:01pm Sat 5 Jan 08
That's as maybe but the article still says that Grehatch are a Southampton company which is clearly incorrect!
Perhaps Greyhatch should invent a system for checking the accuracy of newspaper articles..
That's as maybe but the article still says that Grehatch are a Southampton company which is clearly incorrect!
Perhaps Greyhatch should invent a system for checking the accuracy of newspaper articles..
Posted by: Garry Trestump, South Hampton on 9:50pm Sat 5 Jan 08
"The massive deal for 3,000 units will see sales at Southampton new technology firm Grayhatch climb from Ģ1.5m to Ģ15m over the next three years, bosses claim"
This strikes me as strange because Greyhatch have an advert on www.findthatmoney.co
m asking for someone to invest Ģ1M in their Company.
Why has no one invested already if they genuinely are on course for a Ģ15M turnover?
Advertising for investment on a website suggests they have already exhausted conventional means of raising investment.
Why have the banks and investment companies decided not to invest? You'd have thought they'd jump at the chance, given the figures..
"The massive deal for 3,000 units will see sales at Southampton new technology firm Grayhatch climb from Ģ1.5m to Ģ15m over the next three years, bosses claim"
This strikes me as strange because Greyhatch have an advert on www.findthatmoney.co
m asking for someone to invest Ģ1M in their Company.
Why has no one invested already if they genuinely are on course for a Ģ15M turnover?
Advertising for investment on a website suggests they have already exhausted conventional means of raising investment.
Why have the banks and investment companies decided not to invest? You'd have thought they'd jump at the chance, given the figures..
Posted by: james wright, Hong Kong on 2:27am Sun 6 Jan 08
OK. I have now read this blurb and good comments here. Facts.
1. Grayhatch is an Anglo Spanish company
2. All companies even BT, ntl, shell, BP, Virgin, M&S ETC. offer for sale investment.
If you care to look at the www.grayhatch.com website you will see that they offer for sale and for investment in new patented products.
The fact that they have an order for this particular product does not reflect the other products they have and need investors for.
Why do people always try to bring down success is it a national paste time in the UK?
Here you have a company investing what must be millions in the future of British jobs and trying to get investors for other products to do the same and all they get is people making them out as Spanish not English And having a go at them for being successful and saving the environment.
What is it people want? why do so many jobs go abroad? Answers in the above I think.
They are making the benches in Southampton. Or would you prefer Poland?.
OK. I have now read this blurb and good comments here. Facts.
1. Grayhatch is an Anglo Spanish company
2. All companies even BT, ntl, shell, BP, Virgin, M&S ETC. offer for sale investment.
If you care to look at the www.grayhatch.com website you will see that they offer for sale and for investment in new patented products.
The fact that they have an order for this particular product does not reflect the other products they have and need investors for.
Why do people always try to bring down success is it a national paste time in the UK?
Here you have a company investing what must be millions in the future of British jobs and trying to get investors for other products to do the same and all they get is people making them out as Spanish not English And having a go at them for being successful and saving the environment.
What is it people want? why do so many jobs go abroad? Answers in the above I think.
They are making the benches in Southampton. Or would you prefer Poland?.
Posted by: john from ASADA, Fareham on 2:47am Sun 6 Jan 08
I really don't care about what all you lot are saying. If this grayhatch people have an answer to stop global warming and make jobs in Hampshire wahts the problem? Those lighting boxes are using loads in electric to advertise things i see them everyday and no where to sit down either...Thanks to them problem solved stop being muppets lets stop global warming John ASDA Fareham Yes i did this in my own time. Not ASDA Time.
I really don't care about what all you lot are saying. If this grayhatch people have an answer to stop global warming and make jobs in Hampshire wahts the problem? Those lighting boxes are using loads in electric to advertise things i see them everyday and no where to sit down either...Thanks to them problem solved stop being muppets lets stop global warming John ASDA Fareham Yes i did this in my own time. Not ASDA Time.
Posted by: tina yang, NINGBO CHINA on 2:59am Sun 6 Jan 08
WHY DO YOU HAVE PROBLEM WITH PEOPLE GIVEN WORK TO POPLE IT GOOD THING NOT BAD THING AND HELP SAVE POLUTION I THINK THIS GOOD NOT BAD AND NOT YOU SAY BAD THINGS FOR THIS ENVIRONMENT THING WHAT YOU DO IN ENGLAND ALSO EFFECT US IN CHINA AND WHOT WE DO EFFECT YOU SO MAK MAY SOLAR THING BENCHS FOR YOU SAV ME. TINA YANG THANK YOU ENGLISH PEOPLE
WHY DO YOU HAVE PROBLEM WITH PEOPLE GIVEN WORK TO POPLE IT GOOD THING NOT BAD THING AND HELP SAVE POLUTION I THINK THIS GOOD NOT BAD AND NOT YOU SAY BAD THINGS FOR THIS ENVIRONMENT THING WHAT YOU DO IN ENGLAND ALSO EFFECT US IN CHINA AND WHOT WE DO EFFECT YOU SO MAK MAY SOLAR THING BENCHS FOR YOU SAV ME. TINA YANG THANK YOU ENGLISH PEOPLE
Posted by: Tom Jones, Formerly Wales on 3:19am Sun 6 Jan 08
[bold]I am not the rich one...and i don't have any vocals. But i am from wales and i think that machine thing for the adverts being solar and mybe wind turbine as well. well done who ever came up with it really well done.[/bold]
I am not the rich one...and i don't have any vocals. But i am from wales and i think that machine thing for the adverts being solar and mybe wind turbine as well. well done who ever came up with it really well done.
Posted by: Andy Hatcher, Alicante Spain on 9:00am Mon 7 Jan 08
I am Andy Hatcher (co Founder of GRAYhatch.com). First, thanks for all the comments (good and bad). To address a few, we are British Inventors Graham from Southampton and me from Stratford Upon Avon. We live in Spain but have production facilities in Southampton, China and USA. The main reason we live in Spain is because of the daylight hours we get which is better for R&D of Solar Powered Devices.
It was me that put up a request for investment from the private sector not because we have tried all the banks. On the contrary, we haven't even asked a bank for money. We have spent a fortune in time, effort and cash in order to produce a series of products which will not only help the environment and peoples health but also to create jobs for the citizens of the UK and to pay UK taxes which in turn benefits the people of Britain.
As with ANY company there will always be good and bad press - we accept both and do not take it personally. We would like to hear any ideas you have regarding our products because by listening we can improve things.
Happy New Year to everyone.
Andy Hatcher
I am Andy Hatcher (co Founder of GRAYhatch.com). First, thanks for all the comments (good and bad). To address a few, we are British Inventors Graham from Southampton and me from Stratford Upon Avon. We live in Spain but have production facilities in Southampton, China and USA. The main reason we live in Spain is because of the daylight hours we get which is better for R&D of Solar Powered Devices.
It was me that put up a request for investment from the private sector not because we have tried all the banks. On the contrary, we haven't even asked a bank for money. We have spent a fortune in time, effort and cash in order to produce a series of products which will not only help the environment and peoples health but also to create jobs for the citizens of the UK and to pay UK taxes which in turn benefits the people of Britain.
As with ANY company there will always be good and bad press - we accept both and do not take it personally. We would like to hear any ideas you have regarding our products because by listening we can improve things.
I actually saw one in Spain. It was amazing to see it light up at night just from solar power AMAZING......I also got to meet Graham Smith the inventor...Fantastic
.
I actually saw one in Spain. It was amazing to see it light up at night just from solar power AMAZING......I also got to meet Graham Smith the inventor...Fantastic
.
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