XPO Fuels Boots’ Push to Decarbonise Logistics Network

XPO Logistics (XPO) will be Boots' new long-term logistics partner to support the integration of its supply chain, use new technologies to improve customer visibility and drive sustainable efficiencies.

XPO has been managing the primary transport distribution of products from two UK-based Boots Service Centres since March 2024, including the 279-acre site at Boots Headquarters in Beeston, Nottingham and another 30 miles across the East Midlands at Burton-on-Trent.

The new supply-chain operation facilitates the distribution of goods from both sites to Boots Cross Dock Centres at scale across the UK and Ireland.

Dan Myers, Senior Vice President, Supply Chain – Europe at XPO Logistics, says: “Our partnership with Boots is built on a shared commitment to continually improving the supply chain that supports their customers.

“We’re combining operational expertise with increased digital visibility to enhance service reliability and make the network more responsive and efficient.

“Initiatives focused on fleet optimisation and lower-emission transport are helping to reduce the environmental impact of deliveries. This collaborative approach supports Boots’ broader sustainability and customer experience goals.”

Leaning into sustainability

Decarbonisation is an ever-increasing challenge, particularly within the logistics sector. Pressures are increasing and customer expectations will continue to get more demanding. XPO has been steadily adapting its strategy to drive sustainability within its supply chain.

It implemented initiatives and solutions to reduce its environmental impact, including its LESS (Low Emissions Sustainable Solutions) programme, which encourages the use of alternative fuels, including Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), and the use of electric vehicles (EVs).

Its commitment to sustainability earned its achievement of the EcoVadis Gold Medal in 2024, earning its place in the top 1% of European road transport companies.

These moves are now paying off for the company at a time when global supply chains all face the unifying problems of climate-related disruption and volatility. Businesses are increasingly adapting their strategies to build sustainability and resilience from the ground up.

In addition, the company is embedding AI, using its ExpressNow service to respond to demands. It relies on AI-led scheduling systems with real-time data to enhance end-to-end visibility.

Boots also benefits from 23 dedicated XPO Logistics support staff and two new operational fleets. One fleet will be assigned for product distribution based on scheduled routes.

The other will be a smaller fleet for dedicated shunting activity at both the Beeston and Burton sites.

Digital growth at pace

The new operation comprises 50 trunking drivers, 35 trunking vehicles, 22 shunt drivers and 10 shunt vehicles, operating seven days a week.

With XPO Logistics on board, Boots will also benefit from improved visibility through new track-and-trace technology and XPO’s award-winning system to monitor its carbon footprint.

Keiron Samways, Director of Warehousing – Transport & Distribution UK & ROI, Boots, says: “Our online operations continue to grow at pace as more customers choose to shop with us digitally.

“This long-term partnership with XPO Logistics strengthens our transport network across the UK and Ireland, giving us greater visibility, resilience and efficiency across our supply chain, supports our sustainability agenda and ensures we’re well positioned to support our customers today and in the future.”