Tesco is launching its largest train service to reduce carbon emissions.
- The initiative will move 31 million cases of goods via rail annually.
- This transition is part of Tesco’s broader carbon neutrality strategy.
- The service cuts more than 6,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year.
- By using rail, Tesco aims to decrease its dependence on road transport.
Tesco has announced the commencement of its largest rail service, set to transport an additional 31 million cases of products annually. This operation will significantly alleviate the dependency on road transport, cutting out over 90 lorry trips per week for transporting goods from its Daventry distribution centre to the Widnes regional centre. The transition from road to rail is part of Tesco’s strategy to enhance sustainability across its operations, subsequently reducing carbon emissions by an estimated 6,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent annually.
The train service, operating six days a week, will expand Tesco’s rail logistics to encompass the movement of over 300 million cases per year. This measure is not only a step forward in Tesco’s environmental strategy but also facilitates the proximity of deliveries to stores, optimising the last-mile logistics efficiency.
Tesco’s partnership with freight companies DRS and Maritime has been pivotal in this expansion, which now includes 198 stores receiving goods by rail. The enhanced service supports major suppliers such as L’Oréal, AB World Foods, PZ Cussons, and Heinz, contributing to emission reduction efforts industry-wide. By leveraging rail for their logistics, partnered suppliers can transport their goods more sustainably, aligning with Tesco’s long-term environmental goals.
Ken Murphy, Tesco Group Chief Executive, emphasised the impact of switching to rail transport, noting that it not only aids in reducing thousands of lorry journeys each year but also decreases carbon emissions significantly. “Tesco’s distribution network is one of the most extensive in the UK, and this shift is crucial as we strive towards becoming carbon neutral by 2035,” he stated.
Further enhancing its logistics, Tesco is optimising its road transport through the implementation of double-decker trailers, achieving a 40% reduction in truck journeys. Collaborations with suppliers have been improved by coordinating transport orders, effectively halving the vehicle requirements for logistics operations, showcasing Tesco’s comprehensive approach to sustainability.
Tesco’s strategic shift to rail transport marks a substantial advancement in its sustainability and carbon reduction endeavours.
