GWP invests in first zero-emission delivery vehicle

GWP Group has invested in its first fully electric delivery vehicle.

Operating out of the production and warehousing site in North Wiltshire, GWP will use the zero-emission 4.2-tonne EV Luton van to deliver corrugated cardboard packaging products to customers across the South-west of England.

The move has been supported by installing four charging points at GWP’s Cricklade headquarters, allowing charging of the van and other company cars.

Besides the electric vehicle, GWP is also introducing a new route planning software and a driver education and incentive programme. These changes aim to reduce fuel usage of the existing fleet further.

James Pedley, Operations Manager at GWP, commented:

We are delighted to have our first fully electric delivery vehicle up and running. Not only will this significantly help us to reduce our carbon emissions, but it will ensure we maintain the high level of service that our customers rely on.

James added:

We are making real strides in reducing fuel consumption at our business, and the changes to customer deliveries are a big part of that. Zero emission electric vehicles and the work we are putting in behind the scenes play a crucial role in driving these improvements.

Besides the new vehicle, GWP has implemented several other sustainability initiatives to reduce carbon emissions.

These include switching to LED lighting, improving recycling processes and engaging with staff across the business on how to make further progress. GWP also procures 100% of its electricity from renewable sources, and is considering plans to install its own solar panels on-site.

Ruth Cook, Managing Director at GWP, added:

Sustainability is the most pressing consideration for not only us as a business, but for the vast majority of our customers too. Starting the switch to electric vehicles, alongside the wide range of initiatives already implemented across our business, is another step towards minimising our environmental impact.

The Macfarlane Group, which GWP became a part of in 2021, also added a 16-tonne EV articulated truck and four 3.5-tonne EV Luton to their fleet earlier in 2023.

Fraikin has supplied the vehicles, which will operate from several of Macfarlane’s Regional Distribution Centres around the UK.

To mark the arrival of the new electric vehicles, Macfarlane ran an internal competition for young family members of Macfarlane Group colleagues to design the truck livery. After choosing the winning design, the new livery is now on Macfarlane Packaging electric trucks across the UK.

To learn more about the steps GWP are taking to improve sustainability, including a range of initiatives and projects, please view the sustainability section of this site.