Menzies launches HVO drive with partner Ball Packaging

Major sustainability initiative towards Group’s Net Zero target.

Menzies Distribution has successfully introduced Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) onto the Ball Packaging contract. This is the launch customer of HVO for Menzies who operate a national fleet of over 500 HGV vehicles.

A sustainable fuel source with a lower carbon footprint than diesel, HVO is capable of reducing CO2 emissions by c. 90% according to its manufacturers. It can be used as the primary fuel source for the vehicle or used in conjunction with diesel to improve CO2 emissions without change to the existing engine or additional maintenance of the vehicles.

A HVO fuel tank has been installed at the Menzies Ball Packaging site in Milton Keynes. Commencing in October and running for 12 months, the trial could reduce supply chain CO2 emissions by around 300 tonnes per year. Approximately 5,000 deliveries will be powered by HVO, with deliveries being made into the Coca-Cola site in Wakefield, West Yorkshire.

Menzies has been a partner of Ball Packaging for more than 13 years, providing warehousing and transport services across multiple sites.

The introduction of HVO forms a key part of helping to accelerate the decarbonisation of transport activities, and is another important part of Menzies’ journey to become Net Zero by 2035.

Ian Hicks, Menzies Head of Operations, commented:

“The transition to HVO is part of the business wide drive to reduce carbon emissions to be Net Zero by 2035. HVO offers a flexible solution with immediate savings, and allows us to meet the demands of our customers to reduce emissions. Ball Packaging have been fantastic in terms of their support for introducing HVO and we look forward to introducing other green initiatives across our network to drive further savings.”

Mark Haslam, Ball Corporation’s Logistics Director EMEA, added:

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Menzies on this pivotal project. Addressing transport emissions holds immense significance for us, spanning from the can’s production to its ultimate delivery phase. By fostering robust partnerships with our customers and suppliers along the entire value chain, we are actively advancing towards our sustainability objectives.”