We’re thrilled to be featured as the lead case study in a powerful new industry article by Constructing Rainbows – a respected, award-winning EDI agency driving meaningful change in the built environment sector.
The piece, written by the brilliant Sharon Slinger FRICS, explores why supplier diversity isn’t just good practice – it’s smart business.
By intentionally engaging diverse suppliers - including women-owned businesses - we cultivate innovation, drive economic empowerment, and help reshape an industry that too often overlooks those outside the dominant narrative. In this blog, we explore why supplier diversity is essential to building not just structures, but a more just and inclusive society.
When organisations open their procurement pipelines to underrepresented business owners, they gain access to new ideas, resilient partnerships, and a supply chain that reflects the society we live in, whilst also future proofing the industry.
Here are some of the reasons why supplier diversity is beneficial to the built environment sector:
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Stimulates economic growth in underserved communities
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Increases service quality through healthy competition
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Drives innovation across the supply chain
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Reduces supply chain risks
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Enhances brand reputation and demonstrates social responsibility
Read the full article via the link below, or scroll for a preview of how The Tap Specialist is proud to lead by example as a female-founded, values-led SME.
>>Read the full article on Constructing Rainbows here
The built environment is more than bricks and mortar – it’s a reflection of the values and voices we choose to elevate.
In her recent article, Sharon Slinger FRICS shines a spotlight on how underrepresented businesses – particularly female-owned SMEs – are reshaping the construction and built environment sectors.
We were honoured to be featured as the lead case study, sharing how The Tap Specialist was built on agility, empathy, and values – not outdated assumptions.
“We built a model that embraces agility, empathy, and smart systems – not outdated assumptions about how people should work.”
– Hannah Freeman, Founder, The Tap Specialist
Here’s a preview of what we shared...
👩 💼 Our Story: Building Differently
The Tap Specialist was launched during the COVID pandemic, as a female founder with ADHD, Hannah Freeman created a business model that’s:
- 100% digital, remote-first -great for staff, & offers value to clients & customers
- Inclusive to staff & customers: offers flexibility for working parents & neurodiverse professionals
- Available for customer support 8am–8pm
- Built around sustainability & purpose-led partnerships
♻️ Sustainability & Accessibility at Our Core
Our instant boiling and filter taps are sustainable by design, reducing energy waste and bottled water use. Every delivery is carbon neutral. We are one of the only retailers to stock Accessible Zip Hydrotaps for people with visual, dexterity, or mobility challenges – because inclusion starts at the tap.
🤝 Purpose-Led Partnerships
We actively collaborate with brands that share our values:
- Urban Veda, Healf, Knack Snacks – wellness & female-led brands
- Ellsi – supporting UK manufacturing
- The Smith Story – modern, inclusive family content
- Nemi Teas – employing refugees through ethical trade
💼 Final Word from Sharon Slinger, FRICS:
“Procurement teams have the power to drive real, lasting change… Inclusive procurement is more than a trend – it’s a business imperative.”
Want to learn more about how supplier diversity can transform your procurement pipeline?
Visit Constructing Rainbows or contact us on 0208 016 8898 or info@thetapspecialist.co.uk to discuss trade opportunities and inclusive products ranges.
