Menzies Distribution continued expansion progresses sustainability credentials.

Recent acquisitions and the expansion of Menzies Distribution have resulted in further growth of its Euro 6 fleet, contributing to significantly reducing the environmental impact and ensuring its trucks can operate sustainably anywhere in the country.

In 2020, the vehicle replacement programme undertaken in this department of the 500-strong fleet, comprising DAF, MAN, Mercedes-Benz and Renault trucks, has not only bolstered Menzies Distribution’s ability to run low emission engines which comply with the Euro 6 industry standard (the lowest emissions limits in history), but means the fleet can enter and operate in any of the UK’s low emission zones without paying an additional daily charge, a cost saving enabling Menzies Distribution to operate more efficiently as well as sustainably nationwide.

Specifically, most recent additions include 60 MAN TGX 6×2 tractor units, 15 Scania R-series 6×2 tractor units, 12 Feldbinder liquid tank trailers, 40 bespoke lifting roof curtainside trailers, 160 high cubic capacity curtainside trailers and a bespoke trailer to move bulk drums.

‘Fleet’ is one of three main pillars within the Menzies Distribution Sustainability pledge, alongside ‘energy consumption’, ‘reuse & recycling’ for the business and its partners. Despite the economic challenges presented by the coronavirus pandemic, the logistics business has refreshed a large proportion of its wide range of trucks, specialist trailers and tankers, committing to a total £14 million spend on new assets in 2020 in this area of the business.

With sustainability a continued high priority for Menzies Distribution, reducing carbon emissions is very important as the company works towards a long-term goal of operating with zero waste, zero harm and zero environmental impact. Having an optimal fleet is a huge part of that commitment. This is especially important when you consider that it also means a great deal to Menzies’ customers who appreciate the focus the company is giving to reducing their supply chain carbon footprint.

Last-mile and urban deliveries continue to be an important part of the work Menzies Distribution undertakes and it’s essential we can operate in any part of the country without additional cost – something we have guaranteed by having a full Euro VI fleet.

Menzies Distribution is fully aware that fossil fuels aren’t sustainable, so these upgrades to our traditional fleet are in addition to the introduction of a dedicated electric fleet which the company aims to expand far ahead of any regulatory deadlines.

For every vehicle replaced by a new Euro VI compliant or electric vehicle, we’re improving air quality, cutting particulates and reducing harmful nitric oxide emissions. To enable this fleet to make as many carbon neutral deliveries as possible, Menzies Distribution has established the largest commercial charging infrastructure in the UK, devised using the most energy efficient vehicle-to-grid charging process, meaning vehicles charge at off-peak times and return spare charge to the grid at peak times when energy is in high-demand.

The company believes that a better fleet makes for a brighter tomorrow, and with 135,500 miles driven by the fleet every day, making sure this is done in a way that’s best for the planet makes a material difference. Read more about Menzies Distribution’s Sustainability values.