85 Low-Emission Vehicles Will Accelerate M&S' Net Zero Path

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Marks & Spencer adds 85 low-emission vehicles to its fleet
Discover how M&S is steering towards net zero by incorporating 85 new, greener vehicles into its logistical operations in a bid to reach net zero by 2040

Marks & Spencer (M&S) continues on its journey to reach net zero emissions by 2040 by integrating 85 lower-emission vehicles into its supply chain.
This step is a part of its broader Plan A strategy, focused on slashing carbon emissions by embracing innovative logistical methods and adopting cleaner fuel technologies.

Marks & Spencer adds 85 low-emission vehicles to its fleet

Introduction of zero-emission HGVs

In a push towards a more sustainable future, M&S has introduced five battery-electric heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) into its Clothing & Home logistic fleet.

These 42-tonne trucks, manufactured by Renault, are now operational and serving various routes.

Notably, they connect the Welham Green distribution centre to about 30 stores throughout London and the South East of England, including high-traffic areas like Oxford Street and Bluewater.

This initiative is part of the ambitious eFREIGHT 2030 project, which benefits from funding through the UK Government's Zero Emission HGV Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) programme.

“Adapting our logistics network is vital in achieving our Plan A Net Zero ambitions. Through collaboration, we’re reducing carbon, saving energy and driving operational efficiencies while delivering products with a lower environmental impact.”

Julian Bailey, Head of Group Transport at M&S

The programme seeks to expedite the shift to zero-emission road freight and facilitate the development of essential charging infrastructure.

Expansion with compressed natural gas vehicles

Following up with its commitment to diversify its sustainable vehicle fleet, M&S has introduced 30 new compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles specifically for its Clothing & Home operations.

These vehicles, including a pioneering 6x2 CNG truck developed in partnership with IVECO, have undergone extensive testing to validate their efficiency, reliability and low-emission performance.

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Moreover, an additional set of 50 4x2 CNG vehicles, managed by logistics partner Gist, are now part of M&S's Food logistics division.

These vehicles are powered by biomethane, a renewable fuel derived from organic waste like food scraps and wastewater.

Using biomethane can slash CO₂ emissions by as much as 85% in comparison to traditional diesel engines, marking a substantial forward leap in decarbonising M&S's extensive supply chain.

Dedication to cleaner, greener transportation

The addition of these 85 eco-friendlier vehicles means nearly 10% of M&S’ travel fleet is now powered by either zero or low-emission solutions.

This transition not only cuts down on carbon emissions but also provides critical insights into the future of sustainable logistics.

Lilian Greenwood, the UK's Future of Roads Minister, commends the company's efforts.

Lilian Greenwood, Future of Roads Minister

"It’s fantastic to see M&S add five zero-emission electric lorries to their fleet thanks to our US$242.87m investment in large zero-emission trucks," she says.

The rollout is part of our commitment to support businesses and consumers in switching to electric vehicles, making Britain a clean energy superpower."

M&S: Pioneering sustainable logistics

These latest additions to M&S’ fleet align with its broader investment in innovative sustainability projects under the Plan A Accelerator Fund.

Recent undertakings include experimenting with the production of green hydrogen using power generated from wind and solar sources on farms, underscoring M&S's commitment to lead in decarbonisation efforts and maintain operational excellence.

By adopting both zero and lower-emission vehicles, M&S reaffirms its dedication to reducing its environmental footprint.

The retailer continues to redefine the boundaries of what’s possible in green logistics, reaffirming its position as a frontrunner in the retail sector’s progress towards a net zero future.


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