Macfarlane Packaging, which works with retailers including Currys, Dunelm and Halfords, has added five new electric vehicles (EVs) to its commercial delivery fleet, as part of the group’s ongoing investment in its carbon reduction strategy.
The latest move will see one 16-tonne EV articulated truck and four 3.5-tonne EV Luton vans take to the road. The new vehicles, supplied by commercial vehicle contract hire firm Fraikin, produce zero emissions, deliver no noise pollution and run on electricity. The vehicles will operate from a number of Macfarlane’s Regional Distribution Centres around the UK.
Commenting on the new vehicles, Tim Hylton, logistics director for Macfarlane Packaging, said: “Deploying electric vehicles in our delivery fleet is a great way for Macfarlane Packaging to reduce our carbon emissions. Combined with our best practice driving programme, gradually increasing the number of zero emission electric vehicles we operate will see us reduce fuel use and lower our impact on the environment. Together, this will ensure that we can deliver vital packaging to protect the products of our customers across the UK in an environmentally friendly way.”
To mark the arrival of the new electric vehicles, Macfarlane Packaging ran an internal competition for young family members of Macfarlane Group colleagues to design the truck livery. The winning design has been chosen and the new livery is now on Macfarlane Packaging electric trucks across the UK.
Fraikin, commercial director, Colin Melvin, added: “We pride ourselves on our ability to use our industry experience and understanding of alternative fuels and connected technologies to deliver the right solution. Macfarlane Packaging is a longstanding, valued customer for Fraikin and it’s fantastic to be playing such an important role in its sustainability strategy.”
Find out more about Macfarlane Packaging, the UK’s largest packaging distributor, in their DeliveryX Company Spotlight featuring Rachel Fellows, director for retail and 3PL.
