M&S Accelerates Net Zero Efforts with Low-Emission Fleet

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Marks & Spencer adds 85 low-emission vehicles to its fleet
Marks & Spencer adds 85 low-emission vehicles, including electric and CNG trucks, to its fleet, advancing its Plan A roadmap to Net Zero by 2040

Marks & Spencer (M&S) has unveiled its latest step toward achieving net zero by 2040: introducing 85 lower-emission vehicles into its supply chain.

The move aligns with the retailer’s Plan A roadmap, which focuses on reducing carbon emissions through innovative logistics solutions and cleaner fuel technologies.

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

Zero-emission HGVs: A milestone for sustainable logistics

As part of this initiative, M&S has introduced five zero-emission battery-electric heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) to its Clothing & Home fleet.

These 42-tonne Renault electric trucks will serve routes between the Welham Green distribution centre and 30 stores across London and the South East, including iconic locations such as Oxford Street and Bluewater.

The vehicles form part of the eFREIGHT 2030 project, supported by the UK Government’s Zero Emission HGV Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) programme. The initiative aims to accelerate the transition to zero-emission road freight and develop charging infrastructure.

“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

Expanding the fleet with compressed natural gas vehicles

In addition to the electric HGVs, M&S is introducing 30 new compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles for its Clothing & Home operations.

The first 6x2 CNG truck, introduced by a UK retailer, was developed in partnership with IVECO and has undergone extensive trials to ensure reliability, efficiency and reduced emissions.

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Furthermore, M&S has incorporated 50 4x2 CNG vehicles into its Food logistics fleet, operated by Gist. These trucks run on biomethane, a renewable fuel from organic waste such as food scraps and wastewater.

Biomethane reduces CO2 emissions by up to 85% compared to diesel engines, marking a significant step toward decarbonising M&S’s supply chain.

A commitment to cleaner transportation

With the addition of these 85 lower-emission vehicles, nearly 10% of M&S’s total transport fleet will be powered by zero or low-emission solutions.

The company’s efforts will reduce carbon emissions and provide valuable insights for the future transition to sustainable logistics.

Lilian Greenwood, Future of Roads Minister

Lilian Greenwood, Future of Roads Minister, praised the retailer’s efforts: “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.

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

Driving innovation for a greener future

M&S’ latest initiative builds on investments in cutting-edge sustainability projects funded through its Plan A Accelerator Fund.

Recent efforts include trials to produce green hydrogen using wind and solar power generated on farms, showcasing the retailer’s commitment to pioneering solutions for decarbonisation.

Introducing zero and lower-emission vehicles is a testament to M&S’ dedication to reducing its environmental impact while maintaining operational excellence. 

M&S continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in sustainable logistics, reaffirming its role as a leader in the retail industry’s journey toward net zero.


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